President William Ruto, his wife Rachel Ruto, and his three daughters are in the US for a five-day State Visit expected to conclude on Thursday, May 24.
While in the United States, President Ruto has been accorded special treatment by the Joe Biden administration. He has been touring the nation protected by special agents from the US's Diplomatic Security Service (DSS).
Kenyans.co.ke profiles the elite group that has offered security to dignitaries such as President Ruto for over a century.
DSS Origin and Roles
The security team was established in 1916 during World War 1 and was used to address the growing cases of militants and terrorists targeting and attacking American diplomats in the US and abroad.
The team offers security to foreign dignitaries who are visiting the US. It has provided security to foreign ministers, former heads of state, members of the British royal family, the secretary generals of the United Nations and NATO among other VIPs.
Additionally, the agency has a presence around the globe at American embassies, consulates, diplomatic meetings, international sporting events and also aid in international investigations.
DSS has more than 2,500 agents, security engineering officers, security technical specialists, and diplomatic couriers.
"Our mission is to lead worldwide security and law enforcement efforts to advance US foreign policy and safeguard national security interests," reads part of the team's website.
DSS agents are on duty round the clock across all time zones to provide safe environment conducive for foreign policy. When diplomatic ties are protected, countries engage in more development projects that grow the economy.
Notably, DSS special agents serve alongside other US government agencies that monitor terrorist activities and other threats to prevent acts against Americans and American interests.
Special agents also advise the US ambassador on security matters, investigate passport and visa fraud, conduct personnel security investigations and manage a complex range of security programs.
Training and Recruitment
To keep up with the changing technology and tactics used by militants, the security team offers intense training depending on the role of the agent.
"As a member of the team you will be responsible for continuing our legacy of safety and security, and for meeting the challenges of protecting personnel and sensitive information at diplomatic locations worldwide," reads part of the website.
The team only takes US citizens with a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college and be at least 20 years old when applying and 21 years when appointed.
DSS is one of the United States' main elite security agencies.
