President Ruto: Plans to transform Nairobi County on course

President William Ruto during the inspection of thee Kibra Soweto East Zone B Affordable Housing Project. [PCS]

President William Ruto has announced an ambitious blueprint to revamp Nairobi County, vowing to clean up and modernise the city while creating thousands of jobs through key infrastructure projects.

Speaking during a church service at Africa Inland Church (AIC) Kibera on Sunday, President Ruto reiterated his commitment to the Nairobi River regeneration project.

He revealed that the initiative would not only rehabilitate the river but also significantly boost employment, with job opportunities expected to rise to 40,000-up from the current 22,000 under the Climate Works Mtaani Initiative.

The comprehensive plan includes the construction of a 60-kilometre sewer line and 50,000 affordable housing units on reclaimed land along the river's banks.

"We will work alongside the Nairobi County Government to ensure that the city remains clean and safe for residents and visitors," he stated.

Ruto also took a hard stance on illegal electricity connections, particularly in informal settlements, warning of strict measures against those involved. He linked the rampant slum fires to these illegal connections, promising swift action.

"Most of the fires in slum areas are due to illegal power connections. We've discussed this at a high level and will bring it to an end soon," he declared.

Defending the Social Health Authority (SHA), President Ruto described it as a transformative program aimed at making healthcare accessible to all Kenyans, regardless of economic status.

"Someone here in Kibera who previously could not afford healthcare can now walk into any government facility and receive treatment. If they're unable to pay, the government will take care of the bill. This was never possible before," he explained.

The Head of State also addressed criticism of his administration, urging Kenyans to disregard detractors and promising to fulfill the Kenya Kwanza manifesto.

"I will lead from the front in uniting this country. This is not just my constitutional responsibility but also a biblical one," he said.

During the service, President Ruto pledged to renovate and modernise AIC Kibera and made a donation toward purchasing uniforms for the church choir.

He was accompanied by Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, Alego Usonga MP Sam Atandi, Area MP Peter Orero, and Mathare MP Anthony Oluoch.