President Ruto reaffirms government commitment to achieving UHC

Kajiado, 

Sunday, 1 December, 2024 

McCreadie Andias 

President William Ruto has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring equitable healthcare for all Kenyans through the rollout of universal health coverage (UHC). Addressing a congregation at an inter-denominational church service in Kimana, Kajiado County, the President emphasized the importance of the program and the critical role it will play in tackling the financial burden of medical bills that have pushed many Kenyans into poverty.

"Let us be honest: Medical bills have been driving many Kenyans into poverty," President Ruto stated. He highlighted that the introduction of the Social Health Authority (SHA) is designed to provide access to quality healthcare for every Kenyan, irrespective of their financial background. He assured the public that robust measures have been put in place, including the enactment of relevant laws, to ensure the success of the program.

Despite previous attempts to implement universal healthcare falling short, Ruto expressed confidence that the Kenya Kwanza administration is determined to deliver on this promise. "We have agreed with county governments and all leaders that we must get it right this time," he said, encouraging Kenyans to register with the SHA to facilitate the effective implementation of the initiative and to ensure accurate data collection.

President Ruto also stressed that no region, religion, or group would be excluded from the government’s development programs. 

He further emphasized the importance of national unity, stating, “This country cannot progress if we are divided. We must be united and work together.” The President added that there was no animosity between the Church and the State, calling for a harmonious relationship between these institutions to foster national growth.

In addition to healthcare, Ruto announced that plans to transfer Amboseli National Park to the people of Kajiado County were progressing well, with Cabinet approval already secured. This move is part of the government's effort to address what he termed as a historical injustice to the local community. However, he cautioned against land subdivision around the park to preserve the ecosystem.

Turning to agriculture, Ruto spoke about the national livestock vaccination drive scheduled for January 2025. In collaboration with county governments, the initiative aims to eradicate diseases that have hindered Kenya’s livestock exports. “Our aim is to secure markets for our livestock products and boost farmers’ earnings,” Ruto explained, underscoring the program’s potential to uplift the agricultural sector.

On the regional front, the President also discussed his upcoming role as the chair of the East African Community (EAC) Summit of Heads of State. He expressed his intention to focus on regional peace and trade, emphasizing that the EAC represents Kenya’s largest market for products. “As I take over the chairmanship, I will work with my colleagues to transform barriers into bridges and stumbling blocks into stepping stones to unite the EAC,” he said. This, he believes, will enhance intra-EAC trade, stimulate regional economies, and create more job opportunities for young people.

Present at the service were several key political figures, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Governors Joseph ole Lenku of Kajiado, Patrick ole Ntutu of Narok, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, and Cabinet Secretaries Kipchumba Murkomen (Sports) and Soipan Tuya (Defence), among others. The unity and collaboration of these leaders, according to Ruto, will be critical in driving the nation’s development agenda.