Mwea — Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has assured Kenyans that the government is committed to empowering young people, helping vulnerable citizens, and keeping peace as the country edges closer to the 2027 General Election.
Addressing congregants at Sunday services in Kirinyaga and Embu counties, Mr. Ruku said the Kenya Kwanza administration remains focused on completing stalled development projects and ensuring ordinary citizens feel the impact of government efforts.
“President William Ruto is committed to fast-tracking all stalled projects to ensure their completion,” Ruku said at Kimbimbi Catholic Church in Mwea. “We’re working closely with stakeholders to deliver timely services that matter to people’s lives.”
He later spoke at the Anglican Church in Muthatari, Manyatta Constituency, where he reiterated the government’s priorities: development, peace, and youth empowerment.
Youth to Help the Elderly Navigate Government Services
One of the key announcements from the Cabinet Secretary was the launch of a youth engagement programme that will see young Kenyans help elderly citizens access digital services at Huduma Centres.
“We are rolling out a plan where the youth will support elderly Kenyans who struggle with online platforms,” Ruku told worshippers. “This is about creating opportunities for our young people while making government services more inclusive.”
The initiative is expected to provide jobs and digital experience for young people, while addressing a growing digital divide that leaves older citizens behind.
Universal Health Coverage Gets a Push
On healthcare, Mr Ruku urged the public to enrol in the Social Health Authority (SHA), the government’s new national health scheme meant to ensure wider access to medical care.
“SHA is working,” he said firmly. “We’ve resolved early teething problems. It’s time for every family to register and benefit from better healthcare.”
The health program is a cornerstone of President Ruto’s plan to achieve universal health coverage, a goal that has faced challenges over the years due to funding gaps and system delays.
Peace First, Politics Later
With political temperatures already rising ahead of the 2027 polls, Ruku issued a stern warning to leaders resorting to inflammatory rhetoric.
“We must maintain peace,” he said. “Any leader talking about bloodshed has no place in leadership. Kenya must always come first.”
His comments come at a time when some opposition voices have warned of unrest if the electoral process is perceived to be unfair. Ruku’s message was clear: the government expects calm and responsible conduct from all political actors.
Projects Underway in Embu
The Cabinet Secretary also used his visit to highlight national government investments in Embu County. He listed several major projects, including the construction of modern markets, road upgrades, an industrial park, and irrigation schemes.
“These projects are part of our broader plan to transform local economies,” Ruku said. “They will boost employment, improve access to services, and raise the standard of living.”
He noted that over KSh 12 billion has been spent on infrastructure projects in Embu County in the past two years, adding that more is expected under the current administration.
A Listening Government?
Throughout the day, Mr Ruku underscored the importance of listening to citizens.
“As a ministry, we will continue engaging with communities at the grassroots,” he said. “This is the only way to shape programmes that reflect the real needs of our people.”
Whether the message resonates across Kenya remains to be seen. But for now, the government is putting youth, healthcare, and peace at the centre of its pitch to voters with promises that the next two years will bring visible results.
