Ruto reveals last conversation with MP Ng’eno, pledges Ksh.20M yearly to support artists in his honour

Speaking during the funeral service for MP Ng’eno and four other victims of a helicopter crash on Friday, President Ruto praised the late lawmaker’s dedication to empowering artists in Eldoret.

He emphasized that the government would continue Ng’eno’s work through the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Heritage.

"Kwa sababu alifanya hiyo kazi ya artists kujitolea, ata kifo chake ametoka akiwa ameenda kusaidia artists kule Endebess, Ng’eno deserves recognition," the President stated.

"Kwa hivyo, hiyo mpango ya kupanga artists. For the next five years, tutatoa pesa Ksh.20 million kila mwaka kupanga kazi Ng’eno alikuwa anafanya. It will be taken over by the Ministry responsible for Arts and we’re going to support the effort our brother and leader did."

President Ruto also recalled Ng’eno’s determination, highlighting an instance when the late MP urgently sought Ksh.30 million from him within a 48-hour window to host an empowerment event for over 20,000 artists in Eldoret.

To heed his request, the Head of State cited that he had to direct the Ministry of Sports to coordinate with Ng’eno to ensure the funds were availed and the event went ahead succesfully.

Reflecting on their last conversation, Ruto shared that he had requested Ng’eno to lend his support for United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Tubi Mohamed Tubi in the Isiolo mini-polls; a campaign that ultimately led to victory with Tubi securing 7,352 votes against Jubilee Party’s Bina Mohamed, who received 634 votes.

"Mara ya mwisho kuongea na Ng’eno ni kama wiki mbili zilizopita. Tulikuwa na uchaguzi wa mbunge wa Isiolo. Niliuliza Ng’eno na wengine kuenda kufanya campaign wa candidate wetu na akapata 90 per cent of the vote," the President recalled.

In addition, President Ruto directed his deputy, Prof. Kithure Kindiki, to begin construction of a road linking Mogondo to Soin - that had been requested by the lawmaker - within two weeks.

Ng’eno was among six people who died in a helicopter crash on the edge of Chepkieb Forest in Mosop, Nandi County, on Saturday evening, March 7. Witnesses suggested that poor visibility due to heavy rains may have contributed to the accident.

Political leaders have paid tribute to the late MP, highlighting his legacy of service, unity, and commitment to his community.