US President pledges stronger ties with Kenya

By Chris Wamalwa, in Washington DC

US President Barack Obama has said Kenya plays an important role in the region and, therefore, its success both politically and economically is of utmost importance to the US.

"Given Kenya’s importance in the region, its democracy and prosperity are of special concern to the US," he said.

President Obama said the US has been supportive and frank about its concerns over the last two years, as Kenya worked toward implementing fundamental reforms necessary to put its democracy and future prosperity on a firmer footing.

"The peaceful and credible August 4 national referendum was a historic landmark in that effort. On behalf of the American people, I congratulate the Kenyan Government, the Interim Independent Electoral Commission and Kenyans on their new Constitution. The US remains your committed friend and partner as you work to build on this important foundation," he said.

Obama made these remarks when he received the new Kenyan ambassador to the US, Elkanah Odembo in the Oval Office at the White House, on Tuesday.

Close relations

Obama told Odembo: "I look forward to working with you to deepen the already close relations between our countries."

Mr Odembo takes over from Rateng Oginga Ogego.

Obama said Kenya and the US share a long history of friendship and partnership based on common values and mutual interests.

Recalling his roots in Kenya, Obama said: "My deep personal connection to Kenya makes today’s ceremony especially meaningful to me."

Speaking to The Standard in his office in Washington, DC soon after the ceremony, Odembo said: "The goodwill towards Kenya is overwhelming, and I’m going to exploit this to increase tourism and investment in Kenya. I feel privileged to be here at this particular time in our long relationship between the two countries."