President William Ruto called on Kenyans to adopt a sense of collective responsibility to reshape the nation’s future.
During a meeting with grassroots leaders from Kisii and Nyamira counties at the Kisii State Lodge on Monday, he challenged citizens to recognize their individual potential to spark meaningful progress. While acknowledging the heavy burdens of leadership, the president encouraged the public to shed any feelings of insignificance and play an active role in the country’s development.
The president championed the current broad-based government as the essential vehicle for delivering large-scale national transformation. He explained that the primary goal of this political pact is to unify the country, which he views as the critical engine for accelerating economic and social growth.
“I urge you that we collaborate and work together. When we formed the broad-based government, it was not a mistake, it was deliberate because we want to make sure that no Kenyan is left behind, and it is my prayer that it will bring the people of Kenya together,” he said.
“This country depends on all of us. Do not underestimate what you can do in pursuit of change in our country. I am not doing an easy job, but it is in my heart to change the country.”
Ruto dismissed the notion that geographic isolation or social standing limits a citizen’s ability to influence the nation’s trajectory. He asserted that nation-building extends far beyond the offices of government officials, framing it instead as a shared duty that demands unwavering commitment from every person across the country. By moving beyond passive observation, he challenged Kenyans to take an active hand in crafting a more prosperous future.
“Usiseme, ‘Sasa mimi nitafanya nini, na mimi ni mtu tu mdogo wa kijiji fulani, which loosely translates to Don’t say, ‘What can I do? I am just an insignificant person from a certain village.’ You can do something about your country,” Ruto said. “The responsibility belongs to all of us. Do not think that this work I am doing is easy. It needs commitment.”
The President offered a candid look at the personal sacrifices required by his office, noting the late hours and relentless schedule. He linked the presence of the grassroots leaders directly to this higher calling, suggesting that their collaboration is the catalyst needed for systemic change.
“I am the president. It’s 10 pm now – what am I doing here? I would have gone to sleep by now if it were different. I would have one or two meetings and gone to sleep. But you see, if it is in your heart to change a country, we must go the extra mile. That is why you people are sitting here today. So that we can change the country together,” he said.
The Head of State at the same time pledged that both counties will gain a significant share of the government’s ambitious development agenda, highlighting upcoming housing projects and modern infrastructure. He noted that the construction of a Sh900 million international-standard stadium is already underway and expects the facility to be complete within nine months.
The President also outlined plans to enhance regional connectivity by expanding the Kisii airport and constructing a new terminal building. Currently on a four-day development tour of Kisii and Nyamira, he intends to launch several key road and market projects during his visit.
“I assure you that your counties will not be left behind. There is enough for all of us. We are now investing Ksh.27 billion in Kisii for Affordable Housing, markets and other projects. If we go with the plan we have, Kenya will be a first-world country,” he said.
