Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has announced the state’s commitment to supporting HIV patients, its plan to intensify efforts against femicide, and new bold economic strategies.
During a press briefing at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, Mwaura outlined key measures that the government has undertaken to address pressing concerns among Kenyans.
HIV
Following the Trump administration’s decision to halt funding for HIV programs in Kenya, the government has assured affected individuals that treatment and care will continue uninterrupted.
“In light of the recent halt in funding and support for HIV patients by the Trump administration, the government assures all affected individuals that we are committed to your well-being.
“The government is actively mobilizing local resources, seeking new partnerships and donors to ensure that your treatment and care continue uninterrupted.
“Your health and safety are our top priorities, and we will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to provide the necessary support during this challenging time,” Mwaura stated.
Femicide
Amid a disturbing rise in femicide cases, the government has announced the formation of a dedicated task force to address gender-based violence.
The initiative comes in response to growing public outrage and mounting pressure on authorities to act decisively.
“Faced with the deeply concerning rise in femicide, the government has established a focused task force to address this critical issue decisively.
“Although constitutional bodies like the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) perform a range of key functions, the task force is dedicated solely to combating femicide, ensuring focused and specialized interventions urgently needed to eradicate this grave societal menace.”
Cash transfers
Mwaura said the government is enhancing the Inua Jamii cash transfer program by piloting an MPESA-based payment system, aimed at streamlining financial aid to over 1.7 million vulnerable Kenyans.
“To further enhance efficiency and convenience for beneficiaries, a new MPESA-based payment system is currently being piloted.
“This innovative approach aims at streamline disbursements, reduce delays, and ensure that funds reach the intended recipients seamlessly, reinforcing the government’s commitment to supporting the most vulnerable members of society,” Mwaura announced.
Agricultural reforms
Mwaura also stated that President William Ruto’s administration has prioritized agriculture, reversing Kenya’s overreliance on food imports and stabilizing prices.
He revealed that the government has secured 5.6 million bags of subsidized fertilizer ahead of the long rains, aiming to boost agricultural productivity and reinforce food security.
Livestock disease outbreak
The recent outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in Kakamega, West Pokot, and Trans Nzoia counties has prompted government action, including quarantines and market closures.
“The government is committed to safeguarding our livestock sector,” Mwaura affirmed.
“We are rolling out a nationwide immunization program targeting 22 million cattle and 50 million sheep and goats.”
The program, essential for maintaining Kenya’s livestock export standards, seeks to open up lucrative markets in Europe and the Middle East.
Economic outlook
Mwaura said Kenya’s inflation rate has fallen to 2.7 per cent, a 17-year low, while the Central Bank of Kenya has cut interest rates to 11.25 per cent from 13 per cent in August 2024.
“Kenya’s credit rating has improved from negative to positive according to Moody’s, reflecting our prudent fiscal policies,” Mwaura said.
According to the government spokesperson, the Kenyan shilling remains stable at approximately Ksh129 per USD, reinforcing investor confidence and stabilizing trade.
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