Ruto Pledges KSH 50,000 for Women and Youth to Boost Business

By:Mary Matheka

President Ruto has pledged to empower women and youth across the country by offering KSH 50,000 to individuals in every ward to support small business start-ups.

Speaking during a church service at the Church of Christ in Africa in Madaraka, Nairobi, on June 8, 2025, he said the initiative aims to tackle unemployment and promote entrepreneurship among vulnerable groups.

“We are launching empowerment programmes that will ensure women and youth in every ward receive KSH 50,000 to begin or grow their businesses,” the President said. “This is about creating opportunities and building a foundation for self-reliance.”

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Quoting from the Bible, Ephesians 4:3, he added, “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” He urged Kenyans to unite and support each other in building the nation.

The programme is expected to benefit over 100,000 individuals, with funds disbursed through structured community development mechanisms.

President Ruto

However, the initiative has attracted both praise and skepticism. Supporters see it as a step in the right direction toward grassroots economic development.

Critics, however, have raised concerns about transparency, selection criteria, and accountability.

“We welcome the support, but we need to know how the money will be distributed fairly,” said Grace Wanjiku, a youth leader from Kibra. “We’ve seen good ideas fail because of poor implementation.”

The government is expected to release full guidelines on how the funds will be accessed in the coming weeks.