President William Ruto has called on Kenyans living in the United Kingdom to remain hopeful and not be discouraged by the steady flow of negative news from home.
He made the remarks on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, during a diaspora town hall meeting in London. The meeting brought together members of the Kenyan community abroad who shared their concerns about the country’s current situation.
Kenyans Abroad Voice Their Worries
Many in the diaspora raised questions about the ongoing political tension, frequent street protests, and the frustration visible in Kenyan media.
They expressed worry over what seems to be increasing instability, even though elections are still two years away.
Ruto Responds: “Kenya Is a Work in Progress”
In response, President Ruto said the negative headlines often do not reflect the full picture.
“Our newspapers are filled with bad news from the first page to the last. You’d think the country is on fire. But I assure you—we are building a nation, and we must stay focused,” he said.
He explained that elections should not dominate the national agenda year-round.
“The election is a one-day event. Kenya is a work in progress every single day. We cannot spend five years focusing on just one day,” he said.
Tough Decisions, Bold Reforms
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President Ruto used the opportunity to defend his leadership style, especially around controversial reforms such as the healthcare shake-up, tax restructuring, and public sector changes.
He acknowledged that some people had advised him to avoid tough reforms during his first term, suggesting that he should focus on being popular instead.
“I could wait ten years to do it, but why wait when I can do it in five?” he said. “I did not come into office to do what is easy or convenient. I came to make the right decisions that will help Kenya grow.”
On Social Media: “It’s Not All Negative”
The president also addressed the rise of toxic online discussions, admitting that social media can be harsh.
“Yes, there are insults. Yes, there’s negativity. But let’s not forget—there are also young Kenyans making money online, supporting families, creating opportunities,” he noted.
He said his government is working to expand and protect the digital space so that more people can benefit from online platforms and build digital businesses.
Purpose of the UK Visit
Ruto is in the UK to strengthen Kenya’s relationship with Britain, sign trade and technology deals, and advocate for global financial reforms that would favor developing countries.
Before coming to the UK, he had engagements in Spain, part of a wider diplomatic trip aimed at attracting investment and building alliances.
After the town hall meeting, President Ruto met with Kenyans during an informal meet-and-greet session. During the event, a Kenyan-Indian man, clearly excited, broke past security to take a selfie with the president.
The moment went viral online, drawing mixed reactions—some amused by the man’s excitement, others concerned about the breach of protocol.
Despite the unexpected moment, the president remained calm and continued chatting with those in attendance, urging them to stay engaged in Kenya’s development
In his closing message, President Ruto encouraged the diaspora to keep supporting Kenya, no matter how challenging the news might seem.
“We have a country to protect and a future to build. Please, don’t give up hope. Kenya needs all of us.”
