Ruto, Kipyegon among 100 most influential Africans

By Peter Ochieng

President William Ruto has been named among the top 100 most influential Africans of 2023, by the New Africa Magazine.

He is not the only Kenyan on the list though. Others are Equity Bank Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) James Mwangi, world record holder in 1500 and 5000m Faith Kipyegon, world marathon record holder Kelvin Kiptum and Chao Tayiana Maina, a Kenyan historian.

Others are climate strategist James Irungu Mwangi, Wanjira Maathai, daughter of the late global environment icon Wangari Maathai, as well as Kenyan film director, producer and author Wanuri Kahiu.

President Ruto was named alongside other African leaders, among them his Nigerian counterpart Bola Tinubu, Mamady Doumbouya, the interim president of Guinea, Nigerian businessman and industrialist Aliko Dangote, and Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (ADB).

The New African Magazine cited president Ruto’s efforts in shaping the African continent’s narrative on pertinent issues in the global arena, such as climate change.

“In one fell swoop, he changed the position of Africa from that of a backseat passenger in the climate crisis discussion to being a lead navigator – an outstanding achievement for the continent,” noted the Magazine.

“In a little over a year since he was elected President of Kenya, William Ruto has displayed remarkable combination of steely resolve with disarming charm."

In September, 2023, president Ruto led Kenyans in successfully hosting the inaugural Africa Climate Summit (ACS).

It was held under the theme “Driving Green Growth and Climate Finance Solutions for Africa and the World."

During the Summit, Ruto urged African governments to increase their investments in green opportunities to unlock the continent’s potential.

He called for investment in renewable energy, green industrialization, climate-smart agriculture and nature conservation.