President William Ruto
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President William Ruto is actively implementing a multifaceted strategy to reaffirm his influence in the Mt Kenya region, a key political stronghold that significantly supported him in the 2022 elections.
This renewed effort follows the impeachment of his former deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, in October of last year, amidst rising discontent toward Ruto's Kenya Kwanza administration. To address the growing hostility and solidify his authority, Ruto has positioned Deputy President Kithure Kindiki as a central figure in his outreach efforts.
Kindiki has initiated dialogues with various stakeholders to tackle pressing issues in the region, while also overseeing critical reforms in the tea and coffee sectors—previously managed by Gachagua. Recently, he publicly criticized Gachagua and his supporters for fomenting dissent against the government, advocating for the provision of solutions over mere complaints. In a bid to bolster the economic landscape of the Mt Kenya region, Kindiki has focused on enhancing tea production and export capabilities.
His discussions on opening new international markets for Kenyan tea include government initiatives that provide subsidized fertilizers and value addition facilities. These measures have reportedly led to increased tea production and export earnings over the past two years. Beyond agricultural reforms, Kindiki is engaging with small-scale business operators in Nairobi County, addressing their concerns and working to counteract Gachagua's residual influence.
This engagement aligns with President Ruto's broader commitment to rejuvenate the local economy, promising to improve coffee and milk production for the benefit of local farmers. The administration has significantly increased funding through the Cherry Advance Fund and committed substantial resources to the coffee sector, with aspirations to enhance smallholder farmers' earnings by 2027.
Moreover, Ruto is expanding his administration's scope by actively incorporating allies from his predecessor Uhuru Kenyatta's camp. Recent notable appointments include Mutahi Kagwe as Minister of Agriculture and Livestock Development, Lee Kinyanjui as Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, and William Kabogo as Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communication, and Digital Economy.
These appointments are slated for National Assembly vetting on January 14. The political dynamics in Mount Kenya have been further complicated by former Mungiki leader Maina Njenga's endorsement of President Ruto and Deputy President Kindiki. Njenga's public statement at a youth event in Nyeri town indicates a shift toward a cooperative relationship with the current administration adding another layer to the region's political landscape.
Ruto’s comprehensive approach seeks to restore political stability and economic vitality in the Mt Kenya region. The administration's ongoing measures will determine the effectiveness of Ruto's efforts to regain control over Mt Kenya politics in the wake of recent challenges.