President William Ruto on Tuesday hosted His Highness Prince Rahim Al-Husseini Aga Khan V at State House Nairobi, emphasizing the critical role of private sector participation in addressing Kenya’s housing deficit and creating employment opportunities.
Speaking during the meeting, President Ruto highlighted the government’s Affordable Housing Programme as a transformative initiative aimed not only at providing safe and dignified homes for millions of Kenyans but also at stimulating industries and expanding opportunities for small and medium enterprises. “As we celebrate this landmark moment, we equally look to new opportunities to deepen our collaboration in areas at the heart of Kenya’s transformation,” Ruto said. “We welcome your partnership in the Affordable Housing Programme, which will deliver safe shelter while creating thousands of jobs, stimulating industries, and expanding opportunities for small enterprises.”
In addition, Ruto called on the Aga Khan to support the Nairobi River Regeneration initiative under the Climate WorkX programme. Already engaging over 40,000 Kenyans, the programme aims to restore ecosystems, clean rivers, and create sustainable urban spaces in Nairobi.
During the meeting, President Ruto conferred Kenya’s highest honor, the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (CGH), on the Aga Khan in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the country’s development, particularly in the fields of health, education, and media.
In response, His Highness Prince Aga Khan V expressed deep humility and gratitude, reaffirming the Aga Khan Development Network’s (AKDN) commitment to strengthening its long-standing partnership with Kenya. “Through the work of the Aga Khan Development Network, whether in health, education, culture, economic development, or the environment, our aim has always been to improve the quality of life for all, regardless of background or faith,” he stated. “We are proud that our programmes and institutions serve millions of Kenyans from all walks of life, across the spectrum of human endeavour.”
The engagement marks a renewed commitment to collaboration between the Kenyan government and AKDN, leveraging private sector expertise and international partnership to advance sustainable development, improve livelihoods, and create inclusive economic opportunities for communities across the country.
