President William Ruto’s State Visit to the United States has drawn attention not only for its diplomatic significance but also for the unconventional mode of transportation employed.

Deviating from the customary use of the familiar Harambee One presidential jet, Ruto embarked on this journey aboard a different aircraft lacking the iconic national symbols and markings typically adorned on the long-serving presidential plane. The decision to forego the use of Harambee One, a Fokker 70 Extended Range (ER) aircraft acquired in 1995 and meticulously modified to accommodate 26 passengers, has sparked curiosity and speculation. This venerable aircraft has faithfully served four Kenyan presidents – Daniel Toroitich Arap Moi, Mwai Kibaki, Uhuru Kenyatta, and now William Ruto – over the course of nearly three decades at an initial cost of Sh2.7 billion to the nation.

Notably, the alternative jet employed by President Ruto lacks the distinctive KAF 308 tail number associated with Harambee One, as well as the three white stripes symbolizing the Kenyan flag. Furthermore, the new aircraft features a yellow and blue stripe, a departure from the nation’s traditional colours. It has also omitted the “Republic of Kenya” logo and the nation’s coat of arms which are prominently displayed on the presidential jet. This unconventional choice of aircraft comes on the heels of National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah’s call for an upgrade to the ageing presidential jet.

However, the Office of the President has remained silent on the rationale behind Ruto’s decision to opt for an alternative mode of transportation for this State Visit. As President Ruto embarks on this diplomatic mission, accompanied by First Lady Rachel Ruto and a sizable delegation, the departure from the familiar Harambee One has undoubtedly added an intriguing dimension to the proceedings.