US Vice President JD Vance is expected to make an official visit to Kenya between November 25 and 30. The visit comes at a sensitive time for trade and security relations between Kenya and the United States. President William Ruto's government hopes to revive the close ties seen during Joe Biden's administration.
Vice President JD Vance's visit places Nairobi back on the international diplomatic stage, about a year and a half since President William Ruto's historic state visit to the United States in May 2024. During that trip, Kenya was elevated to the status of a “Major Non-NATO Ally” (MNNA), the first sub-Saharan nation to receive it, positioning it uniquely as a close US partner in military and security matters.
Although Nairobi's State House has been silent on details, high-level talks have continued between officials from both countries. Foreign Affairs Minister and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi stated: “Over the past year, many promises made are now being implemented in action, and the progress is satisfactory.” Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Dr. Korir Sing’oei added that the visit demonstrates the solidity of ties and continuity of discussions started after Ruto's trip, an honor not given to any African leader in over 20 years.
However, some Republican lawmakers have suggested reviewing the MNNA status, citing Kenya's ties with China, Russia, and Iran. In August, Senator Jim Risch introduced a bill for reassessment, pointing to trade and allegations of human rights violations. Mudavadi affirmed that cooperation has proceeded well, with new talks including technology for electronic component manufacturing and rare earth minerals.
Trade is a key agenda item, especially regarding the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), set to expire in September 2026. The Trump administration extended the program by one year to allow Kenya to renegotiate long-term agreements. Mudavadi said: “If the US does not maintain AGOA for all countries, then each nation will have to negotiate its own terms.”
The visit also addresses the peacekeeping operation in Haiti, where Kenya has deployed 800 police officers, but the initiative faces funding shortages after the US signaled it might cancel its $200 million contribution. This occurs amid Washington's concerns over China's growing influence in Africa, particularly after Ruto's April visit to Beijing, where he and President Xi Jinping agreed to strengthen economic and technological cooperation. Analysts say Vance's trip aims to ensure Kenya remains a strategic pillar for the US in trade, defense, and regional security.