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President William Ruto has urged Kenyans living abroad not to depend entirely on social media for news about the country, warning that many online platforms are filled with misinformation and manipulated content.
Speaking to Kenyans in Rome, Italy, on Monday evening during his official visit, the President said there are deliberate efforts to spread false information for political and personal gain. He encouraged the diaspora to verify news from reliable sources before believing or sharing it.
Ruto noted that social media can sometimes create the impression that nothing positive is happening in Kenya, which he said is not true. He assured those present that his government remains focused on transforming the country’s economy despite criticism.
He emphasized that his priority is not the next General Election but long-term national development. According to him, past leadership failures delayed Kenya’s progress, and his administration is now making tough decisions to move the country forward.
On the economy, the President said Kenya avoided defaulting on its debt, even after being listed among high risk countries in 2023. He attributed this to strict fiscal discipline and bold policy choices.
Ruto also highlighted progress in healthcare, stating that over 30 million Kenyans have registered under the Social Health Authority, significantly improving access to medical services compared to the former NHIF system.
He pointed to the Affordable Housing Programme as another success, with about 270,000 housing units under construction across the country, creating hundreds of thousands of jobs.
In agriculture, he said government reforms, including subsidised fertiliser, have boosted production. Maize output has increased significantly, reducing the need for imports, while farmers in coffee and sugar sectors are earning better returns due to improved systems and removal of cartels.
The President also addressed diaspora matters, saying the creation of the State Department of Diaspora Affairs aims to better serve Kenyans living abroad. He noted that over 500,000 Kenyans have secured jobs overseas, supported by government efforts to regulate recruitment agencies and sign labour agreements with various countries.
He added that diaspora remittances have grown steadily and remain Kenya’s largest source of foreign exchange, thanking Kenyans abroad for their contribution to the economy.
Ruto encouraged Kenyans living outside the country to obey the laws of their host nations and continue representing Kenya positively.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing diaspora concerns, citing the establishment of the diaspora department and the appointment of an ambassador to the Vatican as key steps.
James Mwangi, who accompanied the President, called on Kenyans abroad to invest back home, particularly in sectors like coffee and leather, saying trade and investment are key to economic growth.
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