In a week defined by legislative milestones, economic progress, and rare political camaraderie, President William Ruto showcased a multifaceted approach to governance aimed at bolstering Kenya’s future.
On Monday, the Head of State began his engagements at State House, Nairobi, where he assented to two key pieces of legislation: the Anti-Money Laundering and Combating of Terrorism Financing Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the Insurance Professionals Bill. These laws are expected to enhance financial integrity and curb illicit financial flows, particularly in the property sector and through shell companies.
Later that day, Ruto attended the Second Kenya Urban Forum in Naivasha, stressing the urgency of planned urbanisation. With projections indicating that half of Kenya’s population will live in urban areas by 2050, he highlighted the Affordable Housing Programme targeting over 700,000 homes as a critical solution to slum growth.
On Wednesday, President Ruto met Kisumu leaders, led by Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to inclusive development. He noted significant strides in the blue economy, such as the Kabonyo Fisheries Centre, expected to produce up to 30 million fingerlings annually. He also bid farewell to outgoing US Chargé d’Affaires Marc Dillard, lauding strong bilateral ties focused on economic transformation, security cooperation, and support for Haiti.
Thursday marked the opening of the Third National Executive Retreat in Karen. Addressing Cabinet members and senior officials, Ruto reflected on the implementation of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), acknowledging past hurdles but celebrating economic recovery and Kenya’s rise as Africa’s sixth-largest economy.
Friday’s session took a symbolic turn as President Ruto shared the stage with opposition leader Raila Odinga. In a rare show of unity, Ruto commended Odinga’s candid input on infrastructure, markets, digitisation, and artificial intelligence, reinforcing the importance of bipartisan collaboration for national development.
The week concluded in Meru on Saturday, where the President attended the 10th Annual Dairy Farmers’ Field Day. He reaffirmed his administration’s support for agribusiness and food security, underscoring the critical role of dairy farming in rural economic growth.
