President William Ruto on Monday received a rousing welcome in Nyeri County as he toured the region to roll out youth empowerment and development programmes. The visit drew large crowds, with residents turning out in numbers to catch a glimpse of the Head of State and exchange greetings.
The tour carried political weight, coming at a time when Nyeri remains a stronghold of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Ruto was accompanied by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, both of whom publicly distanced themselves from Gachagua’s DCP party during the event.
Excitement peaked at the Kabiru-ini ASK Showgrounds, where residents surged forward in an attempt to shake the president’s hand as he made his way to the podium. Security officers struggled to control the crowd, creating a tense moment. In a gesture that quickly drew attention, Ruto pulled one of his guards aside to create space and personally greet wananchi pressing forward. The guard appeared momentarily stunned as the president stepped closer to the crowd to exchange handshakes.
The clip of the interaction has since circulated online, with supporters praising Ruto for being approachable and warm toward ordinary citizens.
During his address, the president placed strong emphasis on youth empowerment, stating that young people must be at the centre of Kenya’s transformation agenda. He said the government is creating opportunities through affordable housing projects, overseas job placements, digital employment and entrepreneurship support.
Ruto also launched the disbursement of KSh 173.2 million in NYOTA start-up capital to 6,982 young entrepreneurs drawn from Nyeri, Murang’a, Nyandarua and Kirinyaga counties. He noted that the NYOTA programme aims to reach 820,000 young people through business support, mentorship, skills training and savings mobilisation.
The Nyeri visit underscored both Ruto’s development agenda and his continued push to consolidate support in the Mt. Kenya region.
By Meta