President Ruto's Jamhuri Day Speech on Kenya's 60th Anniversary

 

President William Ruto during a guard of honour at the 60th Jamhuri Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi on December 12, 2023

In a hurry? Here’s the summary of President Ruto’s speech…

• President Ruto celebrated Kenya's 60th Jamhuri Day, marking the final step in the freedom struggle.

• Recognized progress in political maturity, from a single-party to a multiparty democracy with devolved governance.

• Emphasized the shift towards issue-based politics, acknowledging the need for economic progress.

• Outlined government initiatives for economic transformation, including education, agriculture, health, and housing.

• Highlighted achievements in infrastructure development and announced Kenya's decision to be a visa-free country from January 2024.

• Emphasized transparent revenue administration and commitment to prosecuting corruption cases.

• Recognized the role of the national security apparatus, civil service, and the importance of embracing globalization.

• Called for a collective resolve to make Kenya a true Jamhuri – free, prosperous, secure, and democratic.

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President Ruto began by acknowledging the privilege of leading the celebration of the 60th anniversary of Kenya's independence, reflecting on the country's journey to sovereignty, which marked its final step in the freedom struggle 60 years ago. 

He highlighted the dual vision of political and economic self-determination aspired by the nation's forefathers, recognizing undeniable progress over six decades.

The President emphasized the evolution of Kenya's institutions, noting the assertiveness and independence of Parliament in the governance structure. 

Commending progress in county assemblies' autonomy, he outlined proposals enhancing their independence and acknowledged the commitment to devolution, emphasizing resource allocation and empowerment.

Reflecting on the evolution of political culture, President Ruto pointed out the shift towards issue-based and national politics over personalities and tribes. 

However, he acknowledged challenges in economic progress, emphasizing the need for the current generation to prioritize economic prosperity to fulfill the vision of the nation's founders.

President Ruto detailed the government's economic transformation efforts, including stabilizing the economy, creating jobs, and fostering innovation. 

He outlined initiatives in education, agriculture, health, and housing aimed at boosting economic productivity and general well-being. 

Additionally, he discussed the government's commitment to sports, creatives, climate action, and financial inclusion through initiatives like the Hustler Fund.

Recognizing the role of Kenyans working abroad, President Ruto emphasized bilateral agreements to connect skilled workers with global opportunities. 

He honored world-beating athlete Faith Kipyegon and announced plans to enhance Kenya's role in shaping the climate agenda.

The President detailed achievements in infrastructure development, emphasizing the critical role of roads, railways, electricity, and water in socio-economic transformation. 

He announced Kenya's decision to become a visa-free country from January 2024, eliminating visa requirements for global visitors, and introducing a digital platform for electronic travel authorization.

Expressing gratitude for Kenyan sacrifices and contributions, President Ruto emphasized the importance of transparent revenue administration. 

He called for continued efforts to maintain integrity, transparency, and efficiency in revenue management and affirmed the commitment to prosecuting corruption cases without regard to social, economic, or political status.

Acknowledging the critical role of the national security apparatus, President Ruto appreciated the civil service's unique contribution to national transformation, urging higher standards of efficiency and accountability. 

Stressing the importance of infrastructure development as a key enabler for economic growth and transformation, he encouraged embracing globalization, citing Kenya's historical significance and commitment to welcoming the world.

In conclusion, President Ruto called for collective resolve, inspired by past achievements, to fulfill the nation's obligation of making Kenya a true Jamhuri of the people – free, prosperous, secure, and democratic.