In recent weeks, Kenya has witnessed a flurry of high-profile empowerment events led by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, disbursing millions of shillings to local communities across the country.
His latest stop in West Mugirango adds to a series of ten such initiatives in just a week, prompting both praise and suspicion among Kenyans.
While the government insists these efforts are aimed at boosting service delivery and improving livelihoods, critics question the sources, scale, and long-term viability of the handouts.
Dubbed the “empowerment wave,” this initiative is a hallmark of the Kenya Kwanza administration. Official figures suggest close to KSh 100 million is being allocated weekly.
The President reportedly commits KSh 3 million per event, with the Deputy President disbursing KSh 2 million, Parliament leaders KSh 1 million, MPs KSh 100,000, and MCAs KSh 20,000.
These sums starkly contrast with official salaries—KSh 1.4 million per month for the President and KSh 154,000 for MCAs—prompting questions about where the money is coming from.
Opposition figures have condemned the campaign as a “veiled laundering scheme,” accusing the government of disguising electoral bribes as development aid. With elections looming, critics argue that the cash flows, especially in regions like Mount Kenya and Ukambani, are more about buying votes than genuine development.
They also warn that the focus on handouts risks undermining essential public services such as education and healthcare, which are already underfunded and mismanaged.
Government officials maintain the initiative is legitimate and aimed at empowering citizens. Deputy President Gachagua defended the moves, saying, “We are not about to stop the Empowerment Engagement Programme… those criticizing are just used to deceiving Kenyans to get votes.”
He emphasized that the government’s priority is improving livelihoods and increasing incomes, dismissing allegations of political manipulation.
Opposition figures dismiss the campaigns as “temporary handouts,” arguing that true empowerment comes through education and skills development. They warn that the large sums changing hands openly raise serious questions about motives.
Amid this backdrop, President William Ruto in July 2024 announced a ban on donations to religious institutions by state officials, in response to youth-led protests and mounting criticism.
“The Attorney-General is directed to draft legislation establishing a transparent mechanism for charitable contributions,” he stated, signaling a move toward austerity and tighter regulation.
The President also reaffirmed his personal commitment to giving, despite criticism—particularly after some churches, including the Catholic Church, returned funds he had donated.
“Some of us, I being among them, are products of giving to God,” he said, defending his continued donations.
As millions of shillings flow across Kenya, questions persist: Where is all this money coming from? And at what cost?
