Kakamega County, President William Ruto called for national unity, emphasizing the importance of putting aside tribal divisions for the sake of the country’s progress. The service, which was attended by a number of political leaders from the Western region, marked a key moment in the ongoing efforts to bring Kenyans together in the aftermath of the 2022 elections.
President Ruto’s speech highlighted the need for collective effort and cooperation, urging citizens to focus on nation-building rather than dwelling on past political differences. “The time has come for us to put aside our political affiliations and unite for the common good of all Kenyans,” he stated, stressing that the focus should now shift to economic growth, development, and improving the lives of ordinary citizens.
The President’s message was echoed by other political figures from the region, who pledged their unwavering support for his administration. These leaders voiced their commitment to advancing President Ruto’s vision of a united Kenya, and together, they called for an end to divisive rhetoric that has often plagued political discourse. They underscored the importance of inclusivity, urging all citizens to work together in ensuring that every region of the country is part of the development agenda.
In his address, President Ruto particularly focused on initiatives aimed at improving the country’s healthcare system, an issue that has been a key concern for many Kenyans. He encouraged citizens to register with the Social Health Authority, a government initiative designed to provide equitable access to healthcare services, especially for vulnerable populations. “The goal is to ensure that no Kenyan is left behind when it comes to access to quality healthcare,” said President Ruto, emphasizing that the scheme would benefit the less fortunate in society who have often struggled to access essential medical services.
Healthcare has been one of the focal points of President Ruto’s administration since he took office, and his call for widespread registration with the Social Health Authority reflects a commitment to improving the system. Under this initiative, the government aims to ensure that all Kenyans, particularly those in remote and underserved areas, are covered under a robust healthcare plan, which will include free or affordable services in various medical fields, including maternity care, surgical interventions, and outpatient treatment.
Another key area that President Ruto touched on was the sugar industry, an important sector in Western Kenya and parts of the Rift Valley. The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to reforming the sugar industry, following the recent signing of the Sugar Bill 2022. This legislation is designed to overhaul the sector, addressing challenges such as poor management, high debts, and underperformance of sugar factories. The goal of the reforms is to make the sugar industry more competitive and sustainable, which will in turn create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and ensure that farmers in the region benefit from a revitalized industry.
The Sugar Bill 2022, which was signed into law recently, seeks to stabilize the sugar industry by regulating the importation of sugar, ensuring fair pricing, and promoting local production. This law is seen as a critical step toward addressing the longstanding issues in the sugar sector, where many farmers have struggled with low prices for their produce and factory inefficiencies. The reforms are expected to have a positive ripple effect, creating economic opportunities for local farmers and strengthening the region’s economy.
In conclusion, President Ruto’s call for unity and development resonated deeply with the citizens of Kakamega, many of whom have faced economic challenges and political uncertainty in recent years. By focusing on key issues such as healthcare and the sugar industry, the President emphasized his administration’s commitment to improving the livelihoods of all Kenyans. The church service in Kwisero was a reminder that, despite political differences, all Kenyans must unite for the common good and work together to build a prosperous nation.