President William Ruto has urged Kenyan leaders to embrace bold, visionary, and innovative leadership if the country is to achieve sustainable growth and global competitiveness.
Speaking during the launch of the Nairobi International Trade Fair on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, the Head of State stressed that Kenya’s greatest challenge has not been resources, but leadership.
Ruto compared Kenya’s trajectory with that of South Korea, noting that in the 1980s, the Asian nation was at a similar economic level as Kenya. Today, however, South Korea ranks among the world’s most advanced economies—a transformation he attributed to disciplined and visionary leadership.
“The difference between the countries that have succeeded and those that were with Kenya a few years ago, like South Korea, has been good leadership. It is we, the leaders, who have had to make decisions that move Kenya in the right direction,” Ruto said.
The President emphasized that Kenya cannot afford complacency or mediocrity at this stage of its development. Instead, leaders must prioritize innovative policies, creativity, and long-term planning over short-term political gains.
“We must stop working with the ordinary, stop making peace with mediocrity, and work with bold, innovative, and creative ideas. That is what our country has deserved at this point in time,” he added.
Ruto argued that Kenya has the people, resources, and opportunities to thrive, but leadership must rise above routine politics and focus on governance that truly transforms lives. He insisted that this is the critical moment for Kenya to match its global competitors by making governance the driving force of development.
“Our nation has needed serious leadership, nothing more. That has been what will make us achieve our vision and ensure Kenya claims its rightful place among the leading nations,” he said.
Ruto’s remarks come at a time when Kenyans continue to debate governance, accountability, and economic reforms as the nation seeks pathways to prosperity.
