In his State of the Nation Address on November 21, 2024, President William Ruto announced the cancellation of procurement processes that would have awarded control of Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and a power transmission project to India’s Adani Group. This decision followed U.S. indictments against Adani Group’s founder, Gautam Adani, alleging bribery and fraud.
President Ruto cited “new information provided by investigative agencies and partner nations” as the reason for halting these deals. The proposed agreements involved Adani Group expanding JKIA by adding a second runway and upgrading the passenger terminal, as well as constructing power transmission lines under a $736 million public-private partnership.
The President’s announcement was met with applause from lawmakers present in Parliament, where he delivered his address. This move reflects the government’s commitment to transparency and responsiveness to emerging information in its international partnerships.
Ruto Cancels Key Deals Amid Controversy: Accountability or Afterthought
President William Ruto delivered his 2024 State of the Nation Address today, focusing on key challenges and progress in Kenya under his administration. His speech highlighted several issues, including:
- Economic Challenges and Inflation: Ruto acknowledged the financial struggles of many Kenyans while emphasizing the reduction of inflation to 2.7%—the lowest in 17 years. He attributed this to deliberate support for agriculture and reforms in fiscal policies.
- Debt Management: The President outlined plans to pay off Kenya’s $2 billion Eurobond debt starting in December. He emphasized the importance of addressing public debt and fiscal discipline to boost investor confidence.
- Sectoral Reforms: Efforts in agriculture, particularly maize drying services, coffee reforms, and sugar industry rehabilitation, were showcased as measures to improve farmer incomes and sectoral competitiveness.
- Security and Governance: Ruto reaffirmed his commitment to balancing effective security services with upholding human rights, while addressing concerns about femicide and extrajudicial issues. The speech also tackled the integration of community-centered security strategies.
- Social Programs: Updates were provided on universal health coverage progress, with over 14 million Kenyans registered under the new health insurance scheme, and continued focus on affordable housing projects.
Ruto’s address has received mixed reactions. While some applaud his achievements, others criticize unmet promises and rising taxation burdens. Public discourse remains centered on his economic reforms and governance style as the nation evaluates his administration’s performance.
