President William Ruto has declared his preparedness for the 2027 general elections, citing what he termed a solid track record in economic reforms, youth employment, and public service delivery.
Speaking at State House Nairobi during a meeting with 500 clergy from the Federation of Evangelical and Indigenous Christian Churches of Africa, President Ruto called on leaders to refrain from inciting young people into violence. He urged them to instead join efforts in addressing youth unemployment.
Ruto outlined key government initiatives such as the Affordable Housing Programme, digital job creation through Jitume Labs, and bilateral labour agreements that have enabled 400,000 Kenyan youth to secure jobs abroad. Locally, 320,000 youth are engaged in affordable housing projects while another 180,000 are employed in the digital sector.
“The task of creating jobs is ongoing. If we hadn’t created over 900,000 job opportunities, the recent protests would have been far worse,” Ruto said.
He noted that inflation has dropped from 9.6% in 2022 to 3.8%, while the shilling has stabilised from Ksh.165 to Ksh.130 to the dollar. Foreign reserves at the Central Bank have grown to $10.8 billion from $7 billion, which he said reflects improved economic stability.
The President also highlighted achievements in agriculture, including subsidised fertiliser and reforms in the coffee and sugar sectors. Coffee earnings have nearly doubled, and sugar production is projected to hit 900,000 metric tonnes this year, positioning Kenya to become a net sugar exporter in three years.
In education, Ruto revealed that 76,000 teachers have been hired with plans for 24,000 more by year-end—marking the largest recruitment in Kenya’s history.
Ruto defended the construction of a church at State House, dismissing critics as misinformed. “Kenya is a God-fearing nation,” he said, assuring that the structure will provide a dignified worship space for over 300 families residing within the compound.
Reaffirming his commitment to unity and development, the President stated, “I am ready for the 2027 test. I have a solid report card and will account for my achievements.”
