This is an opportunity for President Joe Biden to show his commitment to Africa at a time when Washington appears to be catching up in its involvement with the region.
However, relations with other African allies are strained as geopolitical adversaries such as Russia and China threaten established Western spheres of influence.
Mr Ruto was once an odd candidate to be feted at the White House with the pomp and ceremony that only a few close associates receive each year.
The International Criminal Court indicted him with crimes against humanity over the violence that preceded Kenya’s 2007.
