Ruto unveils score card, says his economic plan is bearing fruit

Matungu Cultural dancers entertain during Madaraka Day Celebrations at Malava Primary School on June 1, 2025. [Benjamin Sakwa/ Standard] President William Ruto yesterday painted a rosy picture of the country's direction, stating that projects under his administration had strengthened the economy, reduced inflation and improved living standards. During the 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations at the Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay, the President also unveiled a raft of new promises. These include a plan to disburse a Sh50,000 to 100,000 Kenyans to start businesses, revive the Kazi Mtaani programme, and introduce a new initiative allowing Kenyans to pay for the Social Health Authority (SHA) scheme in installments. The President reported that the country had recorded an annual economic growth rate of five per cent. He said his administration is undertaking transformative reforms that have brought inflation down from 9.6 per cent in October 2022 to 3.8 per cent in May this year. Ruto insisted the economy is on the right path and highlighted the progress of affordable housing projects, which he described as a "major game changer" in improving lives. "The evidence before us, of real progress with real impact on people's lives, should encourage and inspire us to do even more, together, with greater confidence, and to turn Kenya into the country we all aspire to build," he said. The President's upbeat assessment, however, stands in stark contrast to the views of many Kenyans who continue to decry the high cost of living. He claimed that affordable housing projects have created over 250,000 jobs and improved the livelihoods of many citizens. "The Affordable Housing Programme stands as a powerful symbol of the socio-economic transformation," said Ruto. He also accused critics of opposing initiatives that are designed to benefit ordinary Kenyans. "Today I want to persuade the doubters that no one else is going to bring change except us, and that the only way to build the Kenya we want is by embracing change, however uncomfortable it may seem at first," he said. NYOTA programme The President said the Hustler Fund had supported more than 25 million people, with Sh70 billion disbursed in loans and Sh4.5 billion in savings accumulated. He said the fund is transforming lives by giving small traders and ordinary citizens access to finance without the need for payslips, security, or land title deeds. "It's simple, fair and made for the people," he said. Ruto also introduced a new youth programme, NYOTA, backed by Sh20 billion from the World Bank. The initiative targets 800,000 young people aged between 18 and 29 - and up to 35 for persons with disabilities - offering skills training, job experience, and business support. "Already, over one million youth have signed up," he said. "We are giving out Sh5 billion in grants to 100,000 young people by August. Each one will get Sh50,000 to start a business." The President added that new fish markets are being constructed in Likoni and Kibuyuni, while fish landing sites are being developed in Homa Bay and Kisumu to support the Blue Economy. "We want to cut fish losses and create jobs for women and youth," he said.He further reported that 1,800 kilometres of new roads have been constructed and over 134,000 kilometres improved to ease transport for traders and farmers. In yet another move aimed at addressing youth concerns, Ruto announced the revival of the Kazi Mtaani programme. He said the initiative would offer thousands of young people jobs, skills, and the opportunity to build a better future. "This programme will empower our youth with meaningful work and hope for a better tomorrow," he said. Unity efforts Kazi Mtaani was initially introduced by former President Uhuru Kenyatta but was discontinued in 2022 when Ruto assumed office. He pledged that from next week, over 110,000 young Kenyans will be engaged under the programme to clean towns, build minor roads, plant trees, and improve informal settlements. On the Blue Economy, Ruto highlighted increased investments in fish farming around Lake Victoria, including the Kabonyo Aquaculture Centre and the construction of new fish markets. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki also spoke at the event, lauding efforts by President Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga to unite the country. Slovenian President Natasa Pirc Musar, the guest of honour at the celebrations, commended Kenya for promoting African unity and driving economic growth. Musar noted that Kenya's role in advancing the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) demonstrates the continent's potential for progress through collaboration. "Kenya was among the first to ratify the Africa Continental Free Trade Area agreement in 2018. That shows your commitment to a united and prosperous Africa," she said. She also underscored the historical importance of Madaraka Day, calling it a milestone in Kenya's journey to self-rule. "Sixty-two years ago, the people of Kenya rewrote history. You ended the suffering of colonialism-forced labour, poor pay, and a lack of freedom. Madaraka Day gave you the power to govern yourselves," she said. Report by Olivia Odhiambo, Washington Onyango and James Omoro

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