Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja called on Nairobi residents to be patient and allow the national government, led by President William Ruto, more time to deliver on its promises. Sakaja emphasized the importance of giving the government space to work, urging citizens not to rush to judge the President’s leadership based solely on the first two years of his tenure.
Sakaja’s message of patience and collaboration resonated strongly as he outlined the critical need for cooperation between the national and county governments. He highlighted that Nairobi, as the capital city, must have a special relationship with the national government in order to realize its ambitious development goals. “Nairobi must have a special connection with the national government, which would be vital for the realization of the city’s ambitious development plans,” he said.
One of the key points in Sakaja’s address was his call for unity and collaboration, not division, between the national and county administrations. He noted that the success of Nairobi’s development would be tied to a harmonious partnership between the two levels of government. He specifically addressed the unfairness of expecting immediate results from President Ruto’s government. “We need to give Ruto time. He has only been president for two years,” Sakaja remarked, urging the public to refrain from judging his leadership too harshly in such a short period.
In making his point, Sakaja used a thoughtful analogy, comparing government work to the efforts of a chef preparing a meal. Just as a good meal takes time to cook, so does effective governance. “We must give chefs time; there is an aroma for good work in the government,” he said, likening the gradual progress of the government’s initiatives to the slow but steady development of a high-quality dish.
Sakaja further highlighted that even significant projects like the Nairobi Expressway were not completed overnight, illustrating that progress often requires years of effort. He suggested that President Ruto focus on key infrastructure projects such as a stadium, a TVET, and a hospital in Nairobi, which could boost the city’s development while also improving the lives of residents.
The Governor’s message was further supported by high-profile political figures, including Senator Karen Nyamu and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah. Their presence at the Mass reinforced the call for unity and collaborative efforts between both levels of government. Together, they emphasized that a collective approach was necessary to propel Nairobi to greater heights.
Sakaja also outlined his bold vision for Nairobi, emphasizing the importance of economic empowerment, the strengthening of national-county relations, and a commitment to peace and unity. He spoke passionately about the importance of addressing unemployment, particularly among the youth, in a city where the young population is rapidly growing. Sakaja outlined several initiatives aimed at creating job opportunities, including the ongoing affordable housing program, which seeks to address the city’s housing deficit.
Furthermore, the Governor spoke about the Dishi na County program, a community initiative aimed at improving food security and ensuring 100% school attendance for primary school children. He expressed optimism that such programs, along with continued investment in infrastructure, would lead to greater prosperity and a more harmonious Nairobi.
Through his leadership, Sakaja is determined to keep Nairobi a cosmopolitan city, free from the divisive effects of tribalism. He urged residents to embrace peace and unity, recognizing that progress would only be achieved if the people of Nairobi remained united.
Ultimately, Sakaja’s message was clear: development is a long-term endeavor that requires patience. He urged citizens to trust the process, acknowledging that tangible results take time but are well worth the wait. The call to give President Ruto and his government time to deliver on their promises reflects a broader vision for a united, prosperous, and peaceful Nairobi.
