President William Ruto has unveiled a new financial initiative aimed at uplifting vulnerable groups across Kenya’s wards, as he continues to pitch his Bottom-Up economic model despite mounting criticism.
Speaking during a church service in Nairobi on Sunday, Ruto announced that the government will roll out a fresh cash injection programme targeting women and youth at the grassroots. Under the plan, 70 beneficiaries in every ward will each receive Ksh50,000 to help launch or expand small businesses a move the president says will empower close to 100,000 young Kenyans across the country.
“This is part of our broader strategy to uplift those at the bottom of the economic ladder,” said the president, reiterating that his administration is focused on translating campaign promises into tangible action.
Ruto brushed off critics, insisting their objections stem from positions of privilege. “Those making noise are already at the top. I’m asking them to let me focus on helping those at the bottom,” he told congregants.
The president, who has come under increasing scrutiny for his growing number of cash pledges, defended his leadership, saying he is on a divine mission to reshape the nation.
“I am not distracted by the noise. I am here on assignment and I intend to complete it,” he declared. “No amount of intimidation or name-calling will deter me.”
He further contrasted his administration with those of his predecessors, accusing them of falling short on key development goals such as Universal Health Coverage and affordable housing both of which he has vowed to implement.
Additionally, Ruto highlighted plans for a comprehensive upgrade of Nairobi’s sewer infrastructure, part of the Ksh40 billion Nairobi River restoration project, which is expected to be completed by January 2027.
As he continues to mix religious messaging with policy promises, the president shows no signs of retreating from his grassroots economic vision even as questions swirl around the sustainability and structure of his expanding list of empowerment programmes.
