President William Ruto has unveiled an ambitious KSh5 trillion development plan aimed at transforming Kenya from a third-world economy into a first-world nation. The President announced that the Cabinet will meet on Monday to consider and approve the structure and design of the proposed fund, which will be used to mobilise the massive financing required for the country’s long-term economic transformation.
Speaking on Sunday at the Africa Independent Pentecostal Church of Africa in Karuri, Gatundu North Diocese, Kiambu County, President Ruto said the fund will serve as the main instrument for raising and managing the KSh5 trillion needed to take Kenya to the next level of development. He noted that the country is behind in its development journey and must act decisively to eradicate poverty and hunger.
The President explained that a significant portion of the funds will be invested in modern, high-quality infrastructure. Planned projects include the dualling of 2,500 kilometres of highways, the tarmacking of 28,000 kilometres of roads, the expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, and the upgrading of Mombasa and Lamu ports. The plan also includes extending the Standard Gauge Railway from Naivasha to the Kenya–Uganda border to boost regional trade.
In addition, the KSh5 trillion fund will focus on strengthening food security and energy production. President Ruto said the government plans to construct 50 mega dams, 200 mini-dams, and 1,000 micro-dams. These projects will put 2.5 million acres of land under irrigation and help generate an additional 10,000 megawatts of electricity to support value addition, agro-processing, and industrialisation.
The President used the occasion to urge political leaders to abandon divisive politics and instead focus on uniting the country and serving citizens. He said elections are temporary, but service to the people is a continuous responsibility. He criticised leaders who dismiss the government’s development agenda as impossible, saying such critics lack a clear vision for the country.
President Ruto also rejected claims by opposition leaders that the government has done nothing in terms of development. He highlighted ongoing projects, including the construction of 240,000 affordable houses, 400 modern markets, and hostels with a capacity of 177,000 beds for university, TVET, and Kenya Medical Training College students across the country. In Kiambu County alone, he said the government is investing KSh48 billion in these projects, with an additional KSh4.1 billion allocated for road improvements.
Leaders present at the event, led by National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wa, praised the President’s development agenda, saying it will significantly improve the lives of people in the Mt Kenya region. They noted that Kenyans will ultimately judge leaders based on their development record.
Also in attendance were Cabinet Secretaries Alice Wahome (Lands) and William Kabogo (ICT), as well as Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi.
