President William Ruto greeted PS Stephen Isaboke in Kisii, with other leaders waiting for their turn to meet him.
Journalist Josiah Kariuki reports that President William Ruto revealed plans to cut Value Added Tax on fuel from 16% to 8% over the next three months, implementing measures to shield Kenyans from escalating global oil prices.
During his concluding day of a development tour through the Gusii region in Kisii County, the President stated the government has allocated KSh6.2 billion to stabilize fuel costs and keep kerosene prices unchanged.
Ruto linked the increase in fuel expenses to persistent conflicts in the Middle East involving the United States, Israel and Iran, explaining these tensions have disrupted global supply networks and inflated oil prices.
“We will ensure Kenyans are protected from expensive fuel,” he emphasized, noting the government will maintain surveillance of the circumstances to lessen the economic repercussions locally.
The Head of State highlighted Kenya’s consistent fuel availability through Government-to-Government import schemes, positioning the nation as an attractive option despite worldwide supply constraints.
Additionally, Ruto dismissed opposition demands for protests against climbing fuel expenses, asserting such demonstrations cannot address what he characterized as an international predicament.
He indicated that a sustainable resolution depends on the end of conflicts in the Middle East.
The declaration coincided with the President’s wrap-up of a four-day development initiative distinguished by inaugurating and launching infrastructure initiatives throughout the Gusii area.
Within Bomachoge Chache Constituency, he officially opened the KMTC Gucha Campus, examined the development progress of Egetuki Market, and initiated construction for the Sameta–Egetuki–Ikoba Road.
Further roadway developments and the Nyangweta KMTC Campus were introduced in Etago and South Mugirango.
These initiatives, encompassing medical education centers, transportation networks and commercial facilities, constitute elements of the government’s wider plan to enhance service accessibility, improve linkages and empower local business operators at the community level.
Ruto explained these measures aim to resolve persistent deficiencies in healthcare education, transportation systems and commercial venues, while invigorating local economic activities.
The visit included participation by high-ranking government representatives and community figures, emphasizing what the administration characterized as a unified strategy for development implementation.
The President confirmed the government will persist in giving precedence to similar projects to guarantee inclusive advancement, concurrently addressing external economic challenges like surging worldwide fuel costs.