President Ruto maintains SHIF, housing levy must be implemented

President William Ruto has hailed the housing and health projects undertaken by his administration saying they’re the foundation for social and economic growth.

Speaking in Kakamega County during the third day of his tour of Western Kenya region on Saturday, the President touted the new Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) as a cornerstone to reset the country’s healthcare.

“Sasa tumesema kwa sheria mpya, wale wananchi hawana uwezo kabisa, lazima pia wawe na NHIF. Lakini kwa sababu hawana uwezo wa kulipa, serikali ya Kenya itawalipia wale wako chini ndio kila mtu awe na bima ya afya, atibiwe na aende nyumbani,” he said.

On the housing subject, Ruto and leaders in his company amplifyied what they view as its multiplier effect, urging the President to not give a listening ear to criticism.

National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah said: “Your Excellency, I want to ask you, do not be deterred from the focus you have on delivering to the people of Kenya.”

On learners locked out of schools, the President said his administration has released funds, amid concerns raised by parents over learners who were turned away when schools reopened.

“Watoto wetu, haswa wa JSS, kuna maneno ulaghai inaendelea shuleni, kuna watu, watoto wa JSS wakienda shuleni wanaambiwa pesa serikali haijaletas, nenda ulete school fees. Mimi nataka niwatangazie, serikali ya Kenya imetoa Ksh.7.5 billion ya kusomesha watoto wetu wa JSS, kwa hivyo hakuna mtu ako na ruhusa ya kuuliza watoto pesa kwa sababu serikali imelipa,” he said.

The Head of State’s tour of Kakamega County comes only five months since his last visit to the region.

His tour also prominently featured talks on reviving the ailing sugar sector in the region, with the President committing to get the sugar factories back to work.