President William Ruto has launched a fierce attack on the opposition while unveiling an ambitious plan to create 1.4 million job opportunities for Kenya’s youth, particularly the Gen Z demographic. Speaking during the Nairobi River clean-up inspection, Ruto accused his critics led by impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of lacking any concrete strategy to address the country’s growing youth unemployment crisis.
Ruto branded the opposition as “clueless tribal anarchists,” claiming they exploit the frustrations of young people for political gain without offering meaningful solutions. He linked them to recent protests that led to destruction of property and looting, questioning, “What tangible plan do you have for the young people of Kenya?”
In response to the unrest, Ruto outlined several employment initiatives under his administration’s comprehensive youth empowerment strategy. The government aims to double job opportunities under the Affordable Housing Programme, raising the number from 300,000 to 600,000. Additionally, 200,000 youth are being employed under the revamped Climate WorX programme, which combines job creation with environmental conservation efforts.
Ruto also highlighted the growing digital economy, noting that 180,000 youth are already earning from online jobs, and that his administration intends to expand this space. Furthermore, 400,000 Kenyans are working under the government’s labour mobility programme, which exports labour to global markets.
These efforts are seen as a direct response to Gen Z-led protests that have rocked the country, with youth accusing the government of failing to deliver on earlier job creation promises.
While Gachagua and his allies deny inciting violence and blame the state for sponsoring unrest, Ruto maintained a firm stance, insisting that peace and stability are prerequisites for development.
“Young people cannot get jobs in an environment of chaos and conflict,” he said, urging unity and cautioning youth against being manipulated by divisive leaders.
President Ruto’s remarks underscore his intent to reframe the national conversation shifting focus from political rivalry to economic opportunity, especially for Kenya’s restless and demanding youth population.
