Ruto: Within our lifetime, Kenya must match the best in the world

The President emphasised the power of ambition, vision, and discipline in transforming a country

by JAMES GICHIGI

News28 August 2025 - 12:10

In Summary

“Let no one tell you that your dreams are too big. There is power in daring great, in raising the bar,” he said.
Drawing on his recent visit to Japan, President Ruto highlighted the nation’s impressive infrastructure, prosperity, and national order as examples of what vision and high ambition can achieve.

President William Ruto has challenged Kenyans to aim higher and embrace excellence, insisting that within their lifetime, the nation must rise to first-world standards.

Speaking at the National Youth Service (NYS) passing out parade in Gilgil on Thursday, the President emphasised the power of ambition, vision, and discipline in transforming a country.

“Let no one tell you that your dreams are too big. There is power in daring great, in raising the bar,” he said.

Drawing on his recent visit to Japan, President Ruto highlighted the nation’s impressive infrastructure, prosperity, and national order as examples of what vision and high ambition can achieve.

“I see their order, their infrastructure, their prosperity, and I ask, why not Kenya? Why not us?” he asked, urging Kenyans to learn from global success stories.

He cited countries that had once faced major challenges, including post-war Japan, South Korea in the 1960s, Malaysia, Singapore, and even Kenya itself during the last election.

“They were wrong then, as they are wrong now. For too long, mediocrity has been accepted as the standard. As I am above the average, I dare to embrace greatness,” President Ruto said, calling for a national mindset shift toward ambition and excellence.

The President further reiterated his vision for Kenya, declaring, “Within our lifetime, Kenya will and must rise to the first-world standard.”

He described this as a collective responsibility that requires commitment, discipline, and unity across all sectors of society.

President Ruto also underscored the role of the National Youth Service (NYS) in national development

The NYS, he noted, remains a key institution for preparing the youth to meet these challenges and contribute meaningfully to Kenya’s economic growth.

"When the NYS was founded 61 years ago, it was designed to equip young Kenyans with education, with skills, and national cohesion. Today, the challenge has grown. Nearly one million young Kenyans join the labour market every year," he stated.