“Nobody Will Take Advantage of Kenyans”- Ruto Assures US Health Deal, Pledges $1.6 Billion to Counties

President William Ruto has assured Kenyans that the Kenya-United States Health Cooperation Framework will protect the country and its people. He said the deal is legal, secure, and prioritizes Kenyans’ interests. Speaking at the 12th National and County Governments Coordinating Summit at State House, Nairobi, Ruto emphasized that health data and national rights are safeguarded. The agreement was carefully reviewed by the Office of the Attorney General.

“Our goal is clear. Our focus is sharp. Our determination is strong to ensure the interests of Kenyans remain central,” Ruto said. He warned that no individual or government would take advantage of Kenya while he is President. The summit brought together Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Cabinet Secretaries, and Governors, led by Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, Chair of the Council of Governors.

Ruto explained that previous misinformation came from NGOs acting as middlemen. The US decided to send funds directly to Kenya’s government for efficiency. The funds, over $1.6 billion (KSh 208 billion) over five years, will support healthcare in counties. Ruto said this is not a loan. He praised Kenya’s institutions and human capital for earning US trust.

The President also highlighted progress in devolution. More than 46,000 land parcels and 8,062 housing units have been gazetted to counties. Another 34,000 parcels and 1,000 units are pending transfer. He praised national and county government cooperation for improving service delivery and driving local growth. Counties have strengthened healthcare under Social Health Authority reforms, expanded agriculture value chains, built industrial parks, and adopted digital systems.

“This summit shows what happens when governments choose collaboration over confrontation,” Ruto said. He called for urgent implementation of past resolutions. He welcomed governors’ support and the Deputy President’s guidance to operationalize sector forums, ensuring focus on policy and effective governance.

The initiative demonstrates Kenya’s commitment to protecting citizens while boosting devolved development and strengthening international partnerships.