Ruto Defends Ksh1.2 Billion Church Project at State House, Says It’s Funded from His Pocket
President William Ruto has stood firm on his decision to build a Ksh1.2 billion church at State House, Nairobi, despite growing public criticism. Speaking on Friday, July 4, the president said he had “no regrets” about the project and brushed off concerns, calling the opposition to the church construction the “work of the devil.”
“When we came into office, we found a temporary iron-sheet church inside State House. I won’t apologize for deciding to build a proper church,” Ruto said during his address.
Ruto also made it clear that no government funds would be used for the project. He stressed that the church is being financed from his personal money, not taxpayers’ cash.
“Not a single shilling from the government is being spent. I’m building it with my own money because God’s house deserves dignity and honor,” he added.
The president said his deep Christian faith inspired the project, and he dismissed those criticizing him—especially during a time when many Kenyans are struggling financially.
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The Daily Nation was the first to report the construction plans, revealing that the new church would seat up to 8,000 people. Images and reports showed that the design includes crosses, tall stained-glass windows, and other religious features.
Sources also revealed that the church will serve several purposes. Apart from regular services, it will be used for national prayers, interfaith events, and diplomatic gatherings.
But the announcement has triggered public backlash. Many Kenyans online say the project shows misplaced priorities, arguing that funds and efforts should go toward urgent economic needs instead.
The church is being built at a time when State House is undergoing major renovations, paid for by public funds. By September 2024, the government had already spent Ksh775 million on the renovations, out of a total Ksh1.7 billion budget.
In the new 2025/2026 budget, State House was allocated over Ksh800 million for more upgrades, including Ksh680 million specifically for State House Nairobi.
According to the budget estimates, a large share of the Ksh2.3 billion allocated to the Executive Office of the President will go into upgrading State House Nairobi and other official residences—continuing a trend that began after Ruto took office in 2022.
Ruto Defends Ksh1.2 Billion Church Project at State House, Says It’s Funded from His Pocket