Uhuru assures Kenyans on economy growth

President Uhuru Kenyatta has said the government is focused on growing the Kenyan economy.

He reiterated his commitment to creating a society that is at peace where every citizen has access to food and shelter adding that his vision for Kenya is that of a united country.

According to President Uhuru, every child is entitled to high quality education as is every citizen to affordable healthcare.

“We will achieve this kind of society by growing our economy. This is what my administration has pledged to do, to grow our economy by double digits,” he said.

He was speaking on Thursday in Diani, Kwale County when he officially opened the 88th Rotary District Conference.

President Uhuru further assured Kenyans that the government will strengthen and modernise the agricultural sector which he said remains the main source of livelihood for a majority of citizens.

Earlier in the day, President Uhuru unveiled 12 more nominees to the Cabinet with Felix Kosgey appointed as Cabinet Secretary in the ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries. (READ: Uhuru unveils new Cabinet)

He said: “The aim will be to eliminate hunger, increase farmers’ incomes through value addition and create more jobs through the processing of agricultural products.”

President Uhuru said small and micro enterprise sector that employs majority of citizens especially women and youth will be strengthened, to ensure that women have access to affordable loans for starting or expanding their businesses.

Other measures that he said will be employed to achieve the development agenda include ensuring equitable distribution of resources through the devolved government system, investment in the ICT sector and nurturing a new digital generation that is globally competitive.

President Uhuru said his government will improve the provision of water, including irrigation in the arid and semi-arid parts of the country, to further enhance food security.

“This will also address conflicts that occur as communities compete over scarce resources,” he said.

He added that the government would strengthen ties with regional partners to expand the country’s markets, create jobs and boost growth.

In this regard, he urged all stakeholders to play their role effectively and make Kenya a better country.

“Even as the government takes these steps, let us all remember that the creation of a prosperous country at peace with itself is not the responsibility of the government alone.

“Civil society, business people and citizens also have their part to play,” he said.

He commended the Rotaract team for setting standards for Kenyans in embracing the idea of taking personal responsibility for change.

“I applaud you as you continue to serve with humility and diligence in order to create a more peaceful world.

“I also thank all Rotarians for the work you continue to do to create healthier; more dynamic communities; social and economically stronger nations and an equitable and peaceful world,” he said.

President Kenyatta praised the Rotary Clubs’ provision of services that he said creates social harmony by addressing challenges that face Kenyans.

“Of distinction are projects that the Rotary club has initiated to increase literacy; combat hunger; promote healthcare and facilitate access to clean water amongst communities,” he added.

He noted that the Rotary Club of Kenya has been a reliable partner with the government in addressing development needs and urged continued support to reduce unemployment, invest in the education and health sectors, advance equality between men and women and ensure that all citizens live, work and worship in peace.