The government has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling the issue of unemployment, which has long plagued successive administrations in Kenya. In a strong and deliberate move to confront the challenge head-on, the current administration has implemented strategic policies aimed at creating sustainable employment opportunities for the youth. President Ruto emphasized that his government is intentional about job creation and is keen on addressing the underlying causes of youth disillusionment and restlessness.
While addressing over 500 church leaders at State House Nairobi, the President expressed concern over the growing trend of inciting young people into chaos and violence. He warned that such actions not only destabilize the country but also destroy the very fabric of society. Instead, he urged leaders to offer solutions by supporting ongoing government efforts to address youth unemployment, which he said is a major contributor to unrest.
The President highlighted several initiatives that have already taken shape under his administration. Among them are the Affordable Housing Programme, which has employed over 320,000 youths, and the Jitume Labs digital economy initiative, which has created income opportunities for over 180,000 young Kenyans. He also cited the labour mobility programme, which has enabled 400,000 Kenyans to secure employment abroad through bilateral labour agreements with countries seeking skilled and disciplined workers.
He noted that although the task of providing jobs for the youth is far from complete, the progress made is commendable and measurable. The President explained that without the over 900,000 jobs created in the last two years, recent protests and demonstrations could have been far more destructive. He insisted that employment creation is a continuous process that will require sustained commitment from both government and society.
On the economic front, the President pointed out significant milestones achieved under his leadership. Inflation has dropped from 9.6 percent to 3.8 percent, while the exchange rate has stabilized, and dollar reserves have risen substantially. These gains, he said, are a result of bold economic reforms that have spared Kenya from a looming debt crisis, helping to restore fiscal stability and investor confidence.
In agriculture, the government has distributed subsidized fertilizer to farmers, leading to a reduction in the cost of maize flour and increased food production. Structural reforms in the coffee and sugar sectors have ensured timely payments to farmers and better earnings, reversing years of exploitation by cartels. These interventions are part of a broader agenda to empower communities at the grassroots through fair and productive farming systems.
President Ruto concluded by affirming his administration’s focus on building a united, God-fearing, and productive nation. He dismissed critics who politicize development efforts, including the construction of a church at State House for resident families, and reiterated the constitutional recognition of Kenya as a nation that upholds spiritual values. He assured Kenyans that the transformation journey is on course and called on all citizens to support efforts aimed at securing a prosperous and stable future.
