Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has addressed the criticism surrounding the cost of President William Ruto's state visit to the United States, which is estimated to cost taxpayers over Ksh 200 million.

Speaking at a meeting in Nakuru, Mwaura urged Kenyans to consider the potential benefits of the trip rather than fixating on the expenses. He emphasized that the visit, which marks Ruto as the first African president to be hosted by President Joe Biden, would yield substantial returns for Kenya.

"The president is pursuing opportunities that will benefit our country, and some people are only concerned with the cost. He will return with more value than the expense of the flight," Mwaura stated. "Those questioning the costs seem to be disregarding Kenya's interests."

Mwaura did not specify whether the government was covering the entire cost of the trip. Earlier, the US Embassy had denied reports suggesting that the US was funding the plane expenses for Ruto's state visit.

For this trip, Ruto opted for a chartered Boeing 737-700 business jet, unlike his previous travels. Estimates indicate that Abu Dhabi-based Royal Jet charges Ksh 2.4 million per hour for this aircraft.

In recent discussions, some leaders have advocated for Kenya to acquire a new presidential jet, replacing the older Fokker 70 Extended Range (ER) acquired during former President Daniel Moi's tenure.