Kenya's Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki has come out to defend the government's record, stating that the administration has made significant progress in various sectors despite criticism from opponents. Kindiki was speaking during an evaluation of the government's performance, where he highlighted achievements in key areas. He emphasized that the government's efforts have been successful, contrary to negative assessments by critics. According to Kindiki, the government's accomplishments will be a crucial factor in President William Ruto's re-election bid in 2027.
Prof. Kindiki has been working to demonstrate his contribution to the government's stability and effectiveness since taking over as Deputy President from Rigathi Gachagua two years ago. His efforts focus on coordinating the implementation of crucial projects and strengthening President Ruto's support in the Mt. Kenya region, a vital area for the President's re-election plans. Kindiki's strategy involves showcasing the government's achievements to garner support from the region. He has also been working to improve the government's image by highlighting its successes.
In the agricultural sector, Kindiki cited significant progress, with 7.9 million farmers and 3 million livestock owners registered to facilitate planning and service delivery. He noted that the government now has accurate data on farmers, their livestock, and the crops they grow, enabling targeted support. The Deputy President also mentioned that the price of a 50kg bag of fertilizer has decreased from Sh7,000 in 2022 to Sh2,000, while high-quality maize seeds have become more affordable, dropping from Sh300 to Sh150 per kilogram.
Kindiki also highlighted improvements in the healthcare sector, with 33.3 million Kenyans registered for a government-funded health insurance scheme, up from 8 million in 2022. Regarding employment, he mentioned that the government's affordable housing program has created 1.1 million jobs, while 600,000 jobs have been secured abroad, and 350,000 jobs have been created in the digital sector. Kindiki emphasized that these efforts have helped many young people secure employment and income-generating opportunities.
The Deputy President also pointed to other achievements, including the connection of 1.5 million homes to electricity, an increase in foreign exchange reserves, and the construction of the 60,000-capacity Talanta stadium. These developments, Kindiki argued, demonstrate the government's commitment to improving the lives of Kenyans. He expressed confidence that the government's record will be a significant factor in President Ruto's re-election bid.
Kindiki's efforts have received praise from Cabinet ministers, who say he has effectively coordinated Cabinet committee meetings and removed obstacles delaying projects. His work has been seen as a crucial factor in the government's ability to deliver on its promises. As the 2027 election approaches, Kindiki's role in promoting the government's achievements is expected to continue.
With the 2027 election looming, President Ruto's administration is working to consolidate its support base. Kindiki's defense of the government's record and highlighting of its achievements is seen as a strategic move to boost the President's re-election bid. The government's performance in various sectors will likely be a key factor in the election campaign.
Key points
- The Kenyan government has made significant progress in various sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, and employment.
- Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki is using the government's achievements to promote President Ruto's re-election bid in 2027.
- The government's record will be a crucial factor in the 2027 election campaign.
