Ruto urges politicians to stop inciting youth, roots for empowerment programmes

President William Ruto has asked politicians to stop inciting young people to violence to advance their political agenda, terming it selfish for leaders to exploit the youth without offering solutions to their challenges.

The President said his administration has a concrete plan to create opportunities for young people and drive the country forward.

“The youth want a better future; they want to know how they will get jobs, better education, how they will venture into business, and what support they will get from their government. And that is what we are doing,” he said.

Ruto was accompanied by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Youth Affairs Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Governors Jonathan Lati Lelelit (Samburu), Mohamud Ali (Marsabit) and Joshua Irungu (Laikipia), among other leaders.

The President urged young people to focus on meaningful economic activities that will transform their lives.

“Let us not mix a one-day political affair with the matters that concern your daily lives,” he said.

President Ruto challenged his competitors to present a solid agenda for the country instead of relying on political rhetoric.

“Stop tribal talk, hatred and falsehoods and present your plan. Kenyans can differentiate those with a plan from those without a plan,” he said.

He noted that nations that have developed to first-world status did so by investing in their people and strategic development programmes. He said Kenya is on the right track by investing heavily in education and creating opportunities for graduates.

The President cited the Affordable Housing Programme, overseas jobs, digital opportunities and youth empowerment initiatives such as the NYOTA programme as deliberate government efforts to empower the youth. He explained that the NYOTA Business Support Programme targets 100,000 young people across the country and urged beneficiaries to invest the funds wisely.

Later, President Ruto launched the construction of the Rumuruti Modern Market in Laikipia County, which will host 750 traders. The Ksh.260 million project is expected to boost business and improve livelihoods.

He said the government is also investing Ksh.15 billion in affordable housing in Laikipia, alongside the construction of modern markets, student hostels, major roads and a modern stadium in Nanyuki.

Deputy President Kindiki commended the President for improving security in Laikipia and other banditry-prone regions. Governor Irungu echoed similar sentiments, welcoming major development projects in the county, while Governor Lelelit praised the NYOTA programme as transformative for young people.

Mr Murkomen said the government is using intelligence to disarm civilians in possession of illegal firearms without harassing residents, while Mr Mvurya said the NYOTA programme is enhancing inclusivity in previously marginalised regions.

“This is a clear demonstration that your leadership is taking opportunities to all parts of Kenya,” he said.