The United Arab Emirates supplied the jet used by President William Ruto during his recent state visit to the United States, according to a statement from State House on Thursday evening.
Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed revealed that the jet’s cost was less than Sh10 million.
Mohamed emphasized the common practice of nations supporting each other for mutual prosperity, stating that Kenya operates as a friend, partner, and ally to many countries on the international stage.
“As explained by the President on Thursday, the cost of the jet he travelled in for the historic and successful US State visit was offered by friends of Kenya at a relatively low cost,” Mohamed said. “In this specific case, the United Arab Emirates Government offered the aircraft at less than Sh10 million.”
He noted that using the jet was the most efficient and economical way for the President and his delegation to undertake the trip. Mohamed also highlighted President Ruto’s commitment to implementing austerity measures to ensure Kenya lives within its means, aiming for a balanced budget in three years.
Mohamed referenced previous donations from the UAE, including six military-grade FENNEC helicopters and three ECUREUIL trainer aircraft in 2018, valued at Sh4 billion. He also mentioned the recent agreement with the US to donate 16 helicopters and 150 Armoured Security Vehicles, including 150 Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles scheduled for delivery in September 2024 and eight utility helicopters by early 2025.
“Yes, Kenya has friends, and their interest is to have a secure partner state with which they can trade, invest, and collaborate,” Mohamed affirmed.
He also mentioned Kenya’s decision in 2023 to send military aid to the Democratic Republic of the Congo as part of an East African force to help stabilize the region.
During the National Prayer Breakfast on Thursday, President Ruto addressed the cost of his US trip, stating that “some friends” of the country offered the private jet. He refuted claims that the trip cost nearly Sh200 million, asserting that the expense was kept under Sh10 million.
President Ruto’s three-day official state visit to the US was the first such trip by an African leader in more than 15 years. During the visit, he secured investment deals worth billions of dollars for Kenya.
