President William Ruto has declared that Kenya will become a first-world nation within the next three decades, pledging to end what he described as the country’s “prolonged stay” in the developing world through faith, unity, and hard work.
Speaking during celebrations marking the 70th anniversary of the African Inland Church Ziwani at Starehe Boys Centre, Nairobi, the President said his administration was committed to transforming the economy and improving livelihoods across all sectors.
“By God’s grace, we have been in the third world for far too long,” Ruto told congregants. “It is now time—through our plans, our energy, and the unity of our people—to move this country to a first-world nation within the next 30 years.”
Accompanied by First Lady Rachel Ruto, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, PS Raymond Omollo, and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, the President outlined his vision anchored on housing, healthcare, education, and agriculture as pillars of Kenya’s development blueprint.
Ruto said Kenya has the “ideas, the people, and the resources” needed to achieve this transformation, setting 2055 as the target year. “I am persuaded beyond any reasonable doubt that we will move this country to a first world by 2055,” he said.
He added that he has held discussions with nearly 80 per cent of Members of Parliament, as well as with opposition leader Raila Odinga and KANU Chairman Gideon Moi, to rally support around the long-term vision.
Ruto called for national unity, urging citizens to believe in Kenya’s potential. “We will achieve this if we work together and keep faith in our shared future,” he said, reaffirming his confidence that consistent effort and innovation will anchor Kenya’s rise to developed-nation status.
