Revealed: White House State Dinner Menu for Ruto and Kenyan Delegates

President Joe Biden extended a warm welcome to Kenyan President William Ruto at the White House on Thursday, May 23, 2024, in a profound diplomatic gesture.

The visit was punctuated by a series of announcements and discussions that highlighted the depth and breadth of the bilateral relationship. Notably, President Biden formally requested Congress to grant Kenya the coveted status of a "major non-NATO ally." If approved, Kenya would become the first sub-Saharan African nation to attain this designation, conferring military and diplomatic privileges without formal security guarantees. The diplomatic ceremony extended far beyond the formal meetings, with President Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto being honoured at a gala dinner at the White House. The lavish affair featured a meticulously curated menu, showcasing the culinary talents of the White House executive chef Cris Comerford.

The evening commenced with a chilled heirloom tomato soup, accompanied by sourdough crisps and arbequina olive oil. The main course was a harmonious fusion of flavours, featuring fruitwood-smoked beef short ribs and butter-poached lobster, complemented by citrus butter, baby kale, and a sweet corn purée. For dessert, a white chocolate basket was presented, adorned with banana ganache, raspberries, peaches, and candied lime zest. The wine selection included Hartford Court Chardonnay "Four Hearts Vineyard" 2021, St. Innocent Pinot Noir "Shea Vineyard" 2019, and Iron Horse Classic Vintage Brut 2020.

500 notable guests were invited to the state dinner. The guest list included prominent figures including former presidents, actors, politicians, and media personalities. The Kenyan delegation accompanying President Ruto included distinguished individuals such as ambassador Meg Whitman , Opiyo Wandayi (National Assembly Minority leader), Anne Waiguru (Council of Governor chairperson), John Waiguru, Adan Mohamed, Noordin Haji (National Intelligence Service chief), Hussein Mohamed (State House Spokesperson), David Ndii (President Ruto's economic advisor), Cecily Mbarire (Embu Governor), Kimani Ichung'wah (National Assembly Majority leader), Korir Sing'oei (Foreign Affairs PS), and Ruto's children, Stephanie Ruto, June Ruto, and Cullie Ruto.

Several Cabinet Secretaries also attended the event, including Soipan Tuya (Environment), Njuguna Ndung'u (Treasury), Musalia Mudavadi (Foreign Affairs), Rebecca Miano (Trade), and Aden Duale (Defence). This grand occasion celebrated the enduring partnership between the United States and Kenya, paving the way for further collaboration and strengthening diplomatic ties.