President William Ruto has shared details of his final official discussion with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, highlighting plans to transform Kenya from a third-world to a first-world country. Speaking at the ODM Founders Dinner in Mombasa on Saturday, Ruto said the meeting included Kisumu Governor Anyang Nyong’o and Professor Hiroyuki Hino, who were to provide technical expertise.
“The last meeting I had with Baba, Anyang Nyong’o was there, and Hino was there. We had sat down to craft how to move Kenya from a third-world country to a first-world country,” Ruto said.
He explained that the discussions focused on learning from countries like South Korea and identifying actionable steps to achieve significant national development. “Baba came to that meeting and explained why South Korea is ahead of us, and we agreed on things to do to get there,” Ruto added.
Among the key initiatives discussed were generating 10,000 megawatts of energy, improving infrastructure, extending highways, constructing a new airport, and tarmacking 10,000 more kilometres of road. Ruto noted that Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi had already received instructions to execute the energy targets.
Ruto emphasized that these initiatives are aimed at fulfilling the vision he and Raila shared, honoring the late ODM leader. Since Raila’s passing, Ruto revealed he has been in touch with Governor Nyong’o, who is reportedly drafting a framework to advance the same development agenda.
The President has been actively promoting a campaign to elevate Kenya to first-world status by 2030. Speaking at a church meeting last month, Ruto said, “By God’s grace, the efforts of our hands, the blessings of our plans, and the energy and unity of the people of Kenya will move this country from a third-world to a first-world country in the next 30 years.”
With these ambitious plans, Ruto continues to advocate for large-scale development projects, signaling a long-term vision that could reshape Kenya’s economic and infrastructural landscape.
