President William Ruto has dismissed claims that Kenya is sliding into crisis, urging critics to “stop with the negativity” and insisting that the country is on the right track.
Speaking in Gikambura, Kikuyu, on Monday during the burial of Mzee Isaac Ichung’wah; father of National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, the President maintained that Kenya’s progress is visible despite opposition criticism.
“Kenya is not a failed state. As we move this journey, we will move together. We will have a greater country than we have today,” Ruto told mourners.
He pointed to agriculture as proof of success, announcing that Kenya is set for a record maize harvest this year. “We will harvest close to 75 million bags of maize. This is the highest amount in the history of Kenya,” he said.
The Agriculture Ministry reported 67 million bags in 2024, an improvement from 34.3 million in 2022. Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe had earlier projected about 70 million bags for 2025 and confirmed the government would buy maize directly from farmers to restock the National Strategic Food Reserve.
Ruto also used the occasion to pay tribute to Kimani Ichung’wah, calling him more than just a political ally. “He is not just my friend but my brother. This man has taken many bullets for me,” he said.
The remarks come as debate continues over Kenya’s economic health. Opposition leaders and some analysts argue that rising debt, high costs of living, and political tensions show signs of fragility. But Ruto insists his reforms are beginning to bear fruit, pointing to increased food production and what he describes as tighter fiscal discipline.
