President William Ruto has sent a firm political message to his rivals, asserting that his government is prepared for any challenge while pushing ahead with major infrastructure projects nationwide.
Speaking during the launch of Phase 2C of the Kisumu–Malaba Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) in Kisumu, Ruto said the ongoing projects reflect the government’s commitment to transforming Kenya and delivering on its development promises.
He took a swipe at critics, noting that even those opposed to his administration now acknowledge the progress being made.
“Tunawatangazia wale ambao wanataka kushindana na sisi ya kwamba miradi yetu ya maendeleo inaendelea, Kenya tunaitransform na nataka niwaambie tuko kadi na tuko tayari. Kama mnataka hiyo tuko kadi na tayari, we are ready for you when the time comes,” he said.
(We are sending a message to those who want to compete with us that our development projects are continuing. We are transforming Kenya, and I want to tell you that we are ready and fully prepared.)
The president’s remarks come amid the rising popularity of the “tuko kadi” slogan, which has become a rallying cry for youth engagement in the upcoming 2027 elections. The phrase has been linked to a Gen Z-led mass voter registration campaign encouraging young people to actively participate in the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) processes.
The initiative, led by photojournalist and activist Ademba Allans, has mobilized young people across the country, aiming to boost voter turnout and enhance civic participation among the youth.
Ruto, however, emphasised that his administration remains focused on development. He listed several ongoing and completed infrastructure projects, highlighting the government’s achievements across transport, sports, and conference facilities.
“As has been acknowledged even by those who don’t agree with us, the railway is now underway, Mau Summit Road and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport will shortly be underway," he said.
"We have concluded the building of Talanta (Stadium), and we are on course building a new modern conference facility at Bomas of Kenya. Even the naysayers who said nothing was happening today confess that Kenya is undergoing transformation."
The President stressed that the government’s development agenda is visible across the country and is designed to boost economic growth and competitiveness. He pledged to continue visiting Nyanza to supervise development initiatives and ensure the region benefits from national projects.
Ruto further noted that infrastructure projects like the Kisumu–Malaba SGR will expand economic opportunities, foster regional trade, and promote integration across East Africa.
On Saturday, President Ruto and his Ugandan counterpart Yoweri Museveni officially flagged off the construction of the Kisumu–Malaba SGR line, marking a key milestone in enhancing regional transport and trade connectivity.