Promises here, promises there: Ruto targets youth, women with new ward-level funding

President William Ruto has announced a new round of grassroots funding, this time pledging financial support to youth and women groups in every ward as part of his ongoing economic empowerment agenda.

While many Kenyans continue to question the growing number of financial promises, the head of state maintains that his initiatives are firmly anchored in his Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which he unveiled during the 2022 election campaigns.

Speaking during a church service at the Church of Christ in Africa (CCA) in Makadara, Nairobi, on Sunday, Ruto announced a new funding initiative aimed at helping women and youth groups across the country establish small businesses.

“We have another project where in every ward we will give 70 women and youth groups Sh50,000 to establish businesses,” he said, noting that the initiative will target at least 100,000 young people countrywide.

The President said the move aligns with his commitment to uplifting those at the bottom of the economic pyramid, in line with BETA.

“We are looking for those at the bottom to uplift them. Those shouting at me are at the top; they should give me an opportunity to lift those who are at the bottom,” he added.

Ruto dismissed criticism from political opponents, insisting he would not be distracted from delivering on his promises.

“I don’t care about the noises. I am focused. Because God gave me a chance to lead Kenya, he has given me an assignment to transform this nation, and I will see it through. Those who shout at me can make noise,” he said.

He further accused previous administrations of failing to implement key development programmes, including universal health coverage and affordable housing, adding that his government is committed to delivering where others fell short.

“I am committed, I am determined, I am focused on transforming Kenya. No amount of intimidation or name-calling is going to change my course. I have an assignment to transform Kenya, and I have enough time to do it,” Ruto said.

New sewage system

In Nairobi, the President pledged a new Sh40 billion sewage system as part of a broader Nairobi River clean-up project, which he said would be completed by January 2027.

President Ruto pledged to deliver a branded bus to the CCA Makadara congregation within two to three weeks as part of several financial commitments to the church.

“I have heard your request. Give me two or three weeks, because a bus needs to be built and branded with the CCA name. I will deliver it to support the church’s work,” he said.

He also pledged Sh4 million to replace the church’s asbestos roofing, citing serious health risks linked to the material.

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• promises there: Ruto targets youth

“And regarding the roof, I’ve been told you need Sh3 to Sh4 million. I have agreed, and as I leave, I will meet your treasurer to complete that assignment,” he added.

The President noted that the government has banned the use of asbestos due to its health hazards.

Ruto donated Sh1 million to facilitate transportation for church members heading to an upcoming event in Kisumu. The funds will supplement a Sh500,000 contribution from Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja.

Empowerment fundraiser

He also proposed an empowerment fundraiser for Nairobi County and urged local leaders to begin planning to ensure representation from all wards.

Ruto was accompanied by Governor Sakaja and several Nairobi County leaders during the service.

The President also took a moment to commend former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for backing the national unity agenda, saying such support would help accelerate Kenya’s development.

“This country is going to change before our very eyes. That’s why you see many people resisting, but I don’t pay attention to their noise.”

He reiterated his government’s focus on implementing key development pillars, particularly affordable housing and universal health coverage.