By Eddah Waithaka
In a press briefing held today at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura outlined President William Ruto’s agenda for the 24th Ordinary Summit of the East African Heads of State in Arusha, Tanzania. Mwaura emphasized that the President will engage in crucial bilateral discussions with regional leaders aimed at removing trade barriers and strengthening partnerships in the energy, agriculture, and digital innovation sectors. This summit marks a significant step towards enhanced regional collaboration and economic integration.
“The East African leaders will also discuss the challenges facing the East African
Community, even as they commemorate the Community’s 25th anniversary. Key
amongst their concerns include combating transnational crime, promotion of peace
and security at the borders and the creation of jobs for the citizens of the community,” said Mwaura.
In addition, Mwaura emphasized that the Government recognizes that the cornerstone of effective economic policy lies in its ability to mobilize and strategically allocate capital to maximize national benefits. Within this framework, the focus is on fostering employment opportunities, ensuring equitable income distribution, and promoting overall economic stability. These objectives are integral to the Government’s broader vision, as outlined in the Bottom Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which seeks to create a credible and sustainable pathway for economic recovery and growth.
“As we speak, the country’s public debt stands at 68 percent of the Gross Domestic
Product (GDP), which is higher than the 55 percent recommended by the World Bank
and the International Monetary Fund. While this is a marked improvement from the 73 percent in 2023, the existing austerity measures and budget cuts cannot spur economic development thus the need for a transformational roadmap, that will respond to the needs of the citizens’ while spurring economic growth and bridging the financial gap.”
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Speaking on the matter of the Government observes the ‘16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) which begun on November 25, 2024, Mwaura highlighted that the government remains committed to addressing GBV and to promoting gender inclusion. Our focus is on ensuring women’s safety, empowerment, and equal representation in leadership roles, as a crucial step towards the attainment of the 2/3rds Gender Rule.
“We urge all Kenyans to actively participate in creating a safe environment free for all citizens. Let us demonstrate solidarity against harmful practices, and ensure that our families are safe at home and at the workplace.”
Additionally, the Spokesperson also highlighted that the government is keen on ensuring the health of the animals
and the safety of their produce and has therefore embarked on a nationwide
vaccination exercise, as a vital tool for preventing the spread of infectious diseases and ensuring the long-term sustainability of our agricultural sector.
Some of the key benefits of livestock vaccination include; Increased Productivity and Efficiency, Economic Stability Disease Prevention and Control, Improved Animal Welfare and Public Health Protection.
The national vaccination program is voluntary and will be available to all farmers who do not want their animals to get sick. This is contrary to the allegations that the government is forcing farmers to vaccinate their animals. There is also no Livestock Identification and Registration Bill.
“The government is however working on
regulations that will govern the implementation of an Animal Identification and Traceability (ANITRAC) system, which will promote food safety, curb cattle rustling and open export opportunities for milk, mat and leather products. The government therefore urges all Kenyans, and especially those in the livestock sector to support the ongoing exercise,” said Mwaura.
The program will target 22 million cattle
against foot and mouth disease (FMD) with vaccines from the be supplied by the
Kenya Vaccine Production Institute (KEVEVAPI). With increased collaboration, the government promises to promote a more resilient, sustainable, and prosperous livestock sector.
