US President Barack Obama, the first Kenyan-American President was proud to visit the country, from where his father hailed. Obama not only made contact with his extended family but his visit was also seen as a welcome sign for the local entrepreneurs, businessmen, hotelier, tour operators and beach traders. The businessmen were particularly excited about the avenues set to be opened by the President at the Global Entrepreneurship Summit. Obama raised concerns about endemic corruption holding back the economic growth of Kenya, where his father was born. President was greeted by his paternal step grandmother Sarah and half-sister Auma.
President Obama evoked hope amongst the youth suggesting how the country had “all the potentials.” His advice to the Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta was to deal with corruption. This may not be unique to the Kenya, he said, but it was a sensitive issue which was “weighing down the country” and preventing the country from achieving what it could.
Kenya has been home to a large number British Indian population. Even now large number of Indians residing in Kenya are playing a pivotal role in the countries economic growth. Thus, all eyes were set on Obama's promises made in the country regarding local business growth and investment policies between America and Kenya. Mr Obama urged the audience to adhere to the famous Kenyan concept of 'Harambee', which meant 'pulling together' and also assured the country to remain its 'close partner.' Obama also pointed at the menaces such as wife-beating, female genital mutilation and lack of education for girl child, followed by African societies which has acting as a hindrance in its progress. Mr Obama also promised US help in tackling Islamic militant group Al-Shabaab. During his visit to Ethiopia, the US president praised Ethiopia as an outstanding partner in the fight against militant Islamists.
