Head of State commits KSh550 million for student accommodation and KSh50 million for peace initiative as government pushes infrastructure development.
EDUCATION | ASAL POST
NAIROBI, Kenya – President William Ruto has pledged KSh600 million to support the expansion of Kaimosi Friends University, committing funds for new student hostels and the establishment of a peace centre as part of the government’s investment in higher education and national cohesion.
Speaking on Monday while hosting leaders of the Friends Church at State House, Nairobi, President Ruto announced KSh550 million for the construction of student hostels and an additional KSh50 million to kick-start the proposed peace centre at the university.
The President said the government had responded to requests made by the university leadership to address the growing shortage of student accommodation caused by increasing enrolment.
“I have recorded all you requested me here at the university and I have heard from the Vice-Chancellor. I want to assure you that we have allocated KSh550 million for the construction of hostels at Kaimosi,” Ruto said.
He noted that the allocation marks the first phase of government support, adding that additional funding could be considered as the project progresses.
Support for Peace and National Cohesion
President Ruto also pledged KSh50 million to begin the construction of a peace centre proposed by the Friends Church, saying peace-building remains a key pillar of sustainable national development.
“I will give you KSh50 million to start the project. Just begin, and I will continue supporting you along the way,” the President said.
He said the peace centre would help strengthen dialogue, reconciliation and national unity while complementing the government’s broader development agenda.
Defends National Infrastructure Fund
During the meeting, President Ruto defended the proposed National Infrastructure Fund, saying it would accelerate the implementation of major public projects while reducing dependence on external borrowing.
He said the government plans to use the fund to finance critical infrastructure projects, including roads, public institutions and other strategic investments.
“Kenya built about 20,000 kilometres of tarmac roads over the last 50 years. In the next seven years, we want to construct another 28,000 kilometres,” he said.
The proposed fund is expected to be capitalised with KSh340 billion generated through asset rationalisation and proceeds from government privatisation programmes.
Church Leaders Back Ruto’s Development Agenda
During the meeting, leaders of the Friends Church pledged their support for President Ruto’s development agenda and expressed confidence in the country’s future.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who also attended the event, expressed optimism that Kenya would continue to uphold peace and stability ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The investment in Kaimosi Friends University comes as the government seeks to improve higher education infrastructure, expand student accommodation and strengthen institutions that promote peace and social cohesion across the country.
