President Ruto Urges National Dialogue Amidst Ongoing Protests by Azimio la Umoja Coalition
Saturday, July 15, President William Ruto called for a national conversation in response to the sustained anti-government demonstrations organized by the Azimio la Umoja Coalition.
The Head of State stated in Home Bay, where he attended the homecoming of Principal Secretary for Interior Raymond Omollo, that the protests had led to the wanton devastation of lives and property across the nation.
He warned that the country could descend into anarchy if the leader of Azimio la Uomoja, Raila Odinga, continued to mobilize people in opposition to his government.
“We must discuss the nature of dissent in this country. “This must be a national conversation so that we can define the line between protest and anarchy,” stated the head of state.
Ruto challenged Kenyans, and Raila in particular, to participate in the conversation that would guarantee improved results for the country, so that protests are not used to destabilize the nation.
According to Ruto, those who call for protests must pay for any damages that occur during the demonstrations. He added that he would not shirk his responsibility as Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces.
“The people of Kenya have entrusted me with a mandate. Ruto assured, “Regardless of what the protesters believe or do, I will carry out my duties and ensure that no lives are lost and property is safeguarded.”
He acknowledged the need for a national dialogue to ensure that ordinary Kenyans receive the most from his administration, including a reduction in the cost of living.
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In addition, he warned that the government will not spare those who stage violent protests against the government to destabilize the state.
Ruto also inaugurated a government-funded digital technology laboratory that will be utilized by both Oriwo Boys’ High School students and local adolescents.
Students and graduates will have access to Information Communication and Technology (ICT) education through the Jitume Digital Skills Laboratory, which is strategically located in the village and outfitted with the latest technological applications.
Ruto explained at the program’s inauguration that the Jitume Digital Skills Laboratory will assist young people in the region in obtaining online employment opportunities in other nations.
At Oriwo Boys’ High School, President Ruto stated, “The facility that we have just opened will be utilized by young people in this region to help them acquire necessary skills and access online job markets.”
The Head of State urged job seekers from Homa Bay County to take advantage of the digital skill programs of the Kenya Kwanza administration to turn their lives around, observing that employment opportunities are available everywhere, including on the Internet.
Ruto also utilized the opportunity to garner support for his Digital Super Highway Programme, an initiative by which the Kenya Kwanza government seeks to expand the country’s fiber optic network and increase e-government services.
The President explained that his digital literacy and employment programs, which were approved by the Cabinet in 2022, seek to lay 100,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable across Kenya and to establish 25,000 public Wi-Fi hotspots.
Ruto disclosed that, in addition to the Jitume Digital Skills Laboratory in Karachuonyo, his administration will establish the
Establish Digital Village Smart Hubs in all 1,450 wards of Kenya.
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The government, the private sector, and international donors will fund the initiative, which is estimated to cost Ksh150 billion. It is expected to be finished by 2027,” Ruto disclosed.
As a result, he noted that the Kenyan Digital Superhighway Programme is anticipated to have several benefits, such as increased access to high-speed internet for businesses and individuals as well as increased social inclusion as more people gain internet access.
He explained that the project is part of his government’s efforts to establish a digital economy, which is anticipated to aid in attracting foreign investment, boosting exports, and creating new employment.
The Digital Superhighway Programme is an ambitious undertaking, but it has the potential to transform the economy and society of the nation. Ruto acknowledged CS Eliud Owalo’s contribution to the project, stating that if it is effective, it will help Kenya become a digital economy leader in Africa.
The program will supplement Ajira Digital, which was initiated by former President Uhuru Kenyatta to provide training and employment opportunities for young people.
Ajira DIGITAL was founded in 2016 and has assisted thousands of young people in obtaining training and employment in the technology industry.
Ajira Digital provides training in a variety of technology disciplines, including web design, software development, network administration, and cyber security. The training is provided online and at no cost to the participants.
Participants of Ajira Digital are allowed to obtain employment in a variety of technology companies after completing their training. Additionally, the program aids participants in starting their enterprises.
President Ruto Urges National Dialogue Amidst Ongoing Protests by Azimio la Umoja Coalition
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