United States President Joe Biden is hosting Kenyan President William Ruto for a three-day state visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations.

During this visit, the presidents will address several critical issues, including a strategic plan to alleviate Kenya’s debt distress.

Sources close to the discussions have revealed that the United States will propose a long-term solution to Kenya's debt crisis, which has severely impacted the country’s economy in recent years. The plan involves urging major creditor nations, such as China, to offer debt relief to Kenya through grants and potential suspensions of debt service.

Furthermore, the U.S. will encourage international financial institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to provide low-cost financing options to Kenya.

Following the discussions, both presidents will make a joint announcement and sign agreements that formalize the United States' commitment to addressing Kenya's debt issues.

An official involved in the state visit highlighted the broader implications of Ruto's visit to the U.S., indicating America's intention to support the African continent as a whole.

"When Ruto speaks, he's speaking for Africa. And given that President Biden hasn't had the chance to visit Africa yet, this meeting is not only about Kenya, it's really about sub-Saharan Africa as a whole," noted the official.

As of April this year, Kenya's total debt stood at Ksh10 trillion, according to Central Bank of Kenya Governor Kamau Thugge. Thugge also mentioned that Kenya’s strong shilling had helped reduce the debt from Ksh11 trillion.

He noted that most of Kenya’s outstanding debt is owed to multilateral financial institutions such as the IMF. Among foreign countries, China holds the largest share of Kenya’s debt.