During a development tour of Kisii County, President William Ruto called on young Kenyans to back his administration, arguing that long‑standing opposition leaders have failed to deliver change.

Ruto said he will step aside in 2032, allowing a new generation of leaders to assume power, and urged the audience to support this transition.

He warned that opposition figures were obstructing emerging young politicians, naming several youthful MPs as examples of the talent he wants protected.

Ruto highlighted the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) programme, urging registration and noting that 130,000 youths have already received Sh50,000 grants to start or expand businesses.

He announced a second phase of NYOTA targeting 200,000 additional youths and a new internship scheme for 50,000 graduates beginning January 2027, each with a monthly stipend.

Ruto cited broader employment figures, claiming the Affordable Housing Programme created 1.1 million jobs, 680,000 Kenyans secured work abroad, and 350,000 earned income through digital jobs over the past three years.

He also noted that the Access to Government Procurement Opportunities programme has delivered business training to 600,000 young people.

The outreach comes as Ruto seeks to rebuild trust with Generation Z after protests over the 2024 Finance Bill and related security crackdowns, aiming to solidify support ahead of the 2027 General Election.