Kenya: President Ruto addresses maternal health and foreign trade

President William Ruto addressed several national issues during a visit to Bomet County on September 12, 2026. While attending the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the Chebunyo Amsons Mother and Baby Hospital, Ruto highlighted the urgent need to combat maternal mortality. He noted that approximately 16 women die daily from pregnancy-related causes in Kenya, citing gaps in hospital beds and specialized obstetric care.

During the same visit, President Ruto clarified his administration's stance on foreign traders following previous backlash. He stated that citizens from the East African Community, Comesa, and AfCFTA are free to invest and work in Kenya in accordance with national regulations, emphasizing that Kenya remains an open society.

In a separate political development, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki dismissed former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua as a ‘small timer’ during an inspection of road projects in Tharaka Nithi. Kindiki criticized Gachagua for failing to respect the presidency and expressed confidence in defending his position in the 2027 elections.