Honourable CPA Julius Rutto Joins Boda Boda Empowerment Drive; Calls for Unity, Protection of Grassroots Businesses
Rutto accused some unnamed individuals of trying to weaken or even sabotage efforts meant to uplift boda boda youth.
Rutto added that his appearance was not only a show of solidarity but also to offer material support and motivation to the youth-led sector. Photo/Courtesy.
By Brenda Muriithi
Kesses MP Honourable CPA Julius Rutto ignited the mood following a surprise attendance at a boda boda empowerment program, assuring that the government is committed to uplifting low-income communities and eliminating divisive politics.
Loud cheers welcomed Rutto, who said he hurried to the venue the moment he was informed that the empowerment program had kicked off.
“When I was told that the boda boda initiative has kicked off, I said I must come — and I came,” he told the crowd. “This journey of empowering our boda boda youth begins right here in Thabo, the home of His Excellency the President, before we move on to Keshe’s for the next phase.”
The MP said that the Kenya Kwanza administration is still focusing on ensuring that ordinary Kenyans, boda boda riders, small traders, farmers, and women operating micro-businesses are supported.
“This government is for those at the bottom,” he said. “Every hustle has dignity. There is no business that is useless. Each one contributes to lifting our communities.”
Rutto added that his appearance was not only a show of solidarity but also to offer material support and motivation to the youth-led sector.
In a statement aimed at unnamed political actors, Rutto condemned what he termed attempts to destabilize the boda boda operators and sow division for political gain. He insisted that Kenya must abandon “politics of yesterday” — the politics of hate, incitement, and tribal confrontation.
“Every Kenyan has a right to speak, but not to divide,” he said. “We must reject politics of hate. Let us unite the country.”
He also raised alarm over the increase of illicit brews and ethanol-based alcohol, saying these continue to harm families and fuel unrest in several regions. Rutto said county commissioners and police commanders are already under strict instruction to act, particularly after recent demonstrations and chaos linked to illegal products.
“We cannot allow anybody to destroy our communities through toxic brews,” he warned. “Families are suffering. Leaders must rise and protect the people.”
“How do we help each other? By giving strength, encouraging one another, and understanding each other,” he said. “Every person running a boda boda business, a mama mboga, a farmer — all these hustles deserve respect. There is no business that is useless.”
He reiterated that empowering small enterprises formed part of the Kenya Kwanza agenda aimed at uplifting those at the base of the economic pyramid.
The MP warned against reverting to old political tactics aimed at dividing communities for personal gain. “Siasa za jana ni za kugawanya,” he said. “Today we must speak against politics of hate and keep Kenyans united. Everyone has the right to speak, but not to divide.”
He emphasized that unity is the key to economic development, especially in areas where youths rely heavily on informal businesses.
Hon. Rutto expressed concern over the mushrooming of illegal brews, ethanol-based drinks, and unsafe concoctions that have caused injuries, family breakdowns, and unrest. He said recent chaos had forced security officials, including county commissioners and police commanders, to intervene.
“We will not allow illegal alcohol to destroy our communities,” he said. “We saw the chaos last week. Now the commissioner and the police commander are taking action. Families must be protected.”
Rutto accused some unnamed individuals of trying to weaken or even sabotage efforts meant to uplift boda boda youth.
“We cannot say we are empowering them only for someone else to pull them down,” he said. “If others cannot stand with them, we will continue supporting them ourselves.”
He insisted that the boda boda sector must be strengthened, not destabilized, especially when young people rely on it to earn a living. Hon. Rutto concluded by reiterating his commitment to supporting the youth and ensuring that their businesses were protected.
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