President William Ruto will address a joint session at the US Congress after House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul and Ranking Member Gregory W. Meeks wrote to Speaker Mike Johnson - formally extending the invite.

If Ruto agrees, he will become the first Kenyan President to address a joint US Congress session and the first African head of state since former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf - 18 years ago.

"We are writing to respectfully request that you extend a formal invitation to the President of the Republic of Kenya, His Excellency William Samoei Ruto, to address a joint session of Congress on his official visit to the United States.

"We, therefore, respectfully request that, at your earliest convenience, you invite President William Samoei Ruto to address a joint session of Congress when he is in the United States on or about May 23, 2024," the members wrote.

The leaders noted that the US and Kenya enjoy a good socio-economic relationship, adding that the invite would be a good gesture to the rest of the African continent as well.

“This year, we are celebrating the historic 60th anniversary of the U.S.-Kenya diplomatic relationship. Such an invitation would underscore the importance of the U.S.-Kenya relationship and send a valuable signal to the people of Africa," the statement read in part.

The statement further underscored Kenya's role in maintaining peace and stability in the region, a move that aligns with the US's foreign interests.

They lauded Kenya as one of the largest and most diverse economies in Africa - driven by innovation and resilient human capital. Kenyan youth were lauded for embracing technological advancements and driving change.

"U.S.-Kenya relations continue to deepen, encompassing strong political, economic, technological, and cultural ties. The United States is among Kenya’s largest trading partners and Kenya is one of Africa’s most dynamic economies," read the statement.