Ruto vows to deliver on housing, health and reforms despite opposition

President William Ruto has reaffirmed his commitment to delivering key development programmes including affordable housing, the Social Health Authority (SHA) and agricultural reforms, insisting political pressure will not derail his agenda.

Speaking Sunday, June 8, at Church of Christ in Africa in Uhuru, Nairobi, Ruto said he is focused on pushing through reforms delayed for decades despite criticism from opponents.

“There might be teething problems in implementation, but with time it will settle. I assure Kenyans that all those vulnerable will be attended to,” he explained.

“There might also be a lot of obstructing noises, but to me, that will not deter my commitment. I am focused. I was mandated by Kenyans, and I will ensure I see it through,” he noted.

Ruto described the affordable housing plan and universal health coverage as transformative and long overdue.

“We have waited for these projects for over 30 years, like affordable housing and universal health coverage. This is the time to do it. And I am the person to do it. I will stamp authority to ensure it is done,” the president declared.

He revealed 23 million Kenyans have registered under the new SHA system, designed to make health care universally accessible.

“We decided to consider the poor health coverage. Every Kenyan needs to receive social health care provided by the government. Even those who opposed it are changing tune,” Ruto observed.

On agriculture, he said investments in Kilimo Bora and increased food production are already bearing fruit, especially in boosting maize harvests and farmer empowerment.

He called for expansion of the school feeding programme to keep children in class, urging more counties to adopt it.

“It’s not good that our children are not attending school because of lack of food. I must commend the county government and ask other governors to embrace the programme,” Ruto added.

He also committed to improving dignity for slum dwellers. He said 60,000 housing units are under  development in Nairobi and 100,000 more will be tendered before the end of the year under the affordable housing project.

“Step by step, we will move people from slums to stay in dignity,” Ruto said. “You have stayed in a house for more than 10 years and you have not paid anything, what do you want him, the governor, to do? Please, stamp authority and ensure they adhere to payment.”

He assured civil servants, police officers, business people and other Kenyans will benefit from social or affordable housing.

Ruto stressed humility and inclusion in governance.

“God has given us the opportunity to lead. We should ask for grace to lead in a better way. As we lead them, we must find it in our plans to guide them with humility and integrity,” he added.

He made clear that unity and peace are central to his leadership philosophy.

“It is my responsibility to unite all Kenyans. That’s why we came as a country in a broad-based government. I will ensure all regions are included in leadership and development, irrespective of political affiliation, religion or community,” Ruto said.