President William Ruto has called on Members of County Assemblies (MCAs) to rally behind his ambitious plan to transform Kenya into a first-world economy within a generation.
Infrastructure Fund Proposal
Speaking at the County Assemblies Forum meeting held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi on Thursday, the President urged MCAs to support the proposed National Infrastructure Fund. He explained that the fund would unlock resources to build dams, airports, roads, and expand electricity access across the country.
“I am asking for your partnership to change Kenya; it is doable; it is possible,” Ruto said.
Leadership and Reform
The President emphasized that true leadership is about making tough decisions rather than chasing popularity:
“We are not elected to be popular; we are elected to do the right things for our nation; to make the right decisions for Kenya.”
He criticized leaders who prioritize titles and positions over service, urging MCAs to focus on substance and progress.
Economic Outlook
Ruto highlighted Kenya’s economic recovery, citing indicators such as low inflation, a stable exchange rate, and increased foreign reserves at the Central Bank. He noted that the Central Bank of Kenya recently reduced the benchmark interest rate from 9% to 8.75%, signaling lower commercial lending rates and creating fiscal space for development projects.
Collaboration with Counties
The President thanked county assemblies and governments for partnering with the national administration in delivering key programs, including subsidized fertilizer. On health, he urged MCAs to encourage constituents to register with the Social Health Authority (SHA) to access free government healthcare, while warning against unscrupulous hospitals charging for outpatient services.
Support for MCAs
Addressing concerns raised by MCAs, Ruto backed the SRC recommendation to reclassify their job groups from D4 to E2, acknowledging their workload and mandate. He also expressed support for the County Assemblies Pension Scheme Bill and the Ward Development Fund, which he said should be constitutionally protected alongside other national funds.
Additionally, he endorsed efforts to formally recognize the County Assemblies Forum (CAF) in law through amendments to the Intergovernmental Relations Act currently before Parliament.
Conclusion
President Ruto’s address underscored his administration’s reliance on county assemblies as partners in driving Kenya’s transformation agenda. By aligning national and county priorities, he aims to secure grassroots support for reforms that he believes will propel Kenya into global economic competitiveness.
