Why Hussein Mohamed's Statement on Ruto's Japan Visit Has Sparked Confusion

State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed has sparked confusion following his statement announcing President William Ruto's visit to Japan.

In a State House dispatch, Hussein described Ruto's visit as one of a kind by a Kenyan head of state in 20 years. He likened the visit to that of the late former President Mwai Kibaki.

"This marks the first State visit by a Kenyan Head of State since President Mwai Kibaki's 20 years ago. The visit follows Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's State Visit to Kenya in May 2023 and celebrates 60 years of diplomatic relations between Kenya and Japan," the statement read in part.

"During his visit to Japan, the President will engage in bilateral talks with Prime Minister Kishida, with a focus on economic cooperation in key sectors such as health, ICT, infrastructure, energy, and financial services."

However, immediately after Hussein shared the dispatch, a section of Kenyans shared photos of former President Uhuru Kenyatta visiting Japan in 2015.

Some even shared old clips showing Hussein reading a news time on Citizen TV announcing Uhuru's visit to Japan.

Amidst the confusion, it has emerged that Uhuru made an Official Visit to Japan which President Ruto has also embarked on. 

Ruto's visit to Japan is an official visit and not a State one. 

Difference Between Official Visit and State Visit

A state visit is a solemn ritualistic or formal visit by a Head of State at the invitation of the host president. A state visit reflects the highest level of hospitality, honour and formality in relations between nations.

On arrival by the visiting head of state, pomp and colour include the playing of the national anthems of the two nations, inspection of a guard of honour with the rendering of full military honours that include a 21-gun salute for the visitor.

This is followed by an official welcome to the State House and the signing of the official guest book before a bilateral meeting followed by a joint press conference.

It is worth noting that in a State Visit, the host nations shoulder all expenses of the visiting delegation. 

Uhuru's Official Visit

In 2015, Uhuru arrived in Tokyo, Japan for a five-day Official Visit aimed at boosting bilateral and trade relations between Kenya and Japan. 

Uhuru's visit was not a State Visit as he also lined up to join other Heads of State attending the 3rdUN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (WCDRR) in Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture.

In an Official Visit, the visiting country shoulders all the expenses unlike in a State Visit where the host nation pays for everything. 

Moreover, in an Official Visit, other honours such as a 21-gun salute, and a state dinner are not mandatory.