‘Transformation is On Course’— Ruto Defends Kenya’s Economic Path in Italy

President William Ruto has issued a strong cautionary message to Kenyans living abroad, urging them to exercise vigilance against the rising tide of misinformation and manipulated content currently circulating online regarding domestic affairs. 

Speaking during an official visit to Rome, Italy, this week, the President emphasized that the narrative portrayed on various social platforms often fails to reflect the positive progress being made within the country.

The President underscored that his administration is firmly focused on long-term structural transformation rather than short-term political gains, even in the face of vocal opposition. 

He pointed out that the country’s transformation agenda has been delayed for long due to poor leadership, saying he has resolved to make difficult decisions that will take the country to the next level. 

President Ruto told the gathering that his administration’s handling of the economy had successfully saved Kenya from defaulting on debt obligations even after it had been flagged as high-risk.

“If you go to social media today, you’ll think there is nothing good happening in Kenya. I ask you not to rely on social media for news about home,” President Ruto told the meeting as per Citizen Digital.

Driving Economic and Social Transformation

Reflecting on his administration’s accomplishments over the past three years, the President highlighted significant strides in healthcare and housing. 

He pointed to the transition to the Social Health Authority (SHA), noting that 30.6 million Kenyans have registered within 18 months, vastly outperforming the legacy National Health Insurance Fund. 

Furthermore, the Affordable Housing Programme has become a cornerstone of his development agenda, with 270,000 units currently under construction across 210 sites, creating hundreds of thousands of jobs and reshaping urban landscapes.

Agricultural reform remains another pillar of this transformation. By eliminating cartels in the tea, coffee, and sugar sectors, the government has seen a tangible rise in farmer incomes. 

Production figures have followed suit; maize yields have surged from 44 million bags in 2022 to 70 million bags in 2025, effectively securing national food supplies.

Empowering the Diaspora

Addressing the specific needs of the Kenyan diaspora, the President highlighted the establishment of the State Department of Diaspora Affairs as a clear indicator of the government’s commitment to its citizens living abroad. 

These efforts have yielded significant economic results. Diaspora remittances have grown from $4 billion in 2022 to $5.2 billion last year, solidifying the diaspora’s role as a primary source of foreign exchange for the country. 

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi reaffirmed this commitment, noting that the recent appointment of an Ambassador to the Vatican serves as further evidence of the state’s intent to strengthen international ties and better serve Kenyans wherever they reside.