Ruto's Plan to Reconnect with Disillusioned 'Hustlers

President William Ruto is grappling with the challenge of re-engaging the "hustlers," a key demographic that propelled him to victory in the 2022 elections.

The hustlers now feel disillusioned due to economic hardship. Ruto has directed his campaign coordinators to mobilize women groups and boda boda operators across 290 constituencies. These groups will be organized into Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (Saccos) to facilitate economic empowerment. The program will initially roll out in the coastal region, with plans to expand nationwide.

The initiative aims to provide financial capital and exposure to various opportunities for these groups. This includes raising awareness about government and overseas job opportunities and assisting with navigating the application process. Ruto has also urged Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki to expedite the process to address the passport backlog hindering foreign employment.

Despite these efforts, recent surveys paint a bleak picture. Ruto's supporters express dissatisfaction with the government's performance, particularly regarding unemployment, cost of living, and job creation. A Tifa survey reveals that 100% of Kenyans have had to adjust their spending due to the high cost of living. President Ruto faces the crucial task of bridging the gap between his promises and the current reality.

Reports from a Parliamentary Group meeting indicate that even MPs face difficulties discussing government policies within their constituencies. President William Ruto on February 15 disclosed his plan to tackle Kenya's unemployment crisis, acknowledging the urgency of creating opportunities for the nation's citizens. His strategy hinges on several key initiatives, each designed to address different aspects of the issue. At the forefront of the plan is the government's ambitious affordable housing program which Ruto touts as a significant job creator.

According to the Head of State, over 130,000 Kenyans are currently employed across construction sites, and this number is projected to reach 300,000 by the end of the year. This labour-intensive program not only provides immediate employment but also stimulates the broader economy through increased demand for building materials and related services. Recognizing the transformative potential of technology, President Ruto emphasizes the establishment of ICT hubs in all 1,450 wards across Kenya. These hubs aim to unlock hundreds of thousands of digital job opportunities, equipping young Kenyans with the skills and resources to thrive in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Looking beyond domestic borders, the government plans to facilitate the export of Kenyan workers to both neighbouring and distant countries. This initiative aims to leverage the skills and potential of the Kenyan workforce, opening up new avenues for employment and income generation. Furthermore, the development of Special Economic Zones and County Aggregation and Industrial Parks is expected to create new employment avenues within Kenya. These zones aim to attract investment and stimulate economic activity, leading to the creation of new businesses and industries that require a diverse workforce.