Fundi wa Mbao: Ruto tries his hand at woodwork with artisans

President William Ruto on Thursday briefly stepped away from speeches and official engagements to try his hand at woodworking.

Ruto joined artisans in cutting a piece of timber during a meeting with more than 5,000 Nairobi County artisans at State House, Nairobi.

The symbolic demonstration took place during the engagement, which brought together carpenters, welders, mechanics, masons, tailors and other informal sector workers to discuss the government's plans to support small businesses and expand opportunities for the Jua Kali sector.

In a moment that drew applause from the audience, the President picked up a saw and joined a carpenter in cutting a piece of timber, underscoring his administration's message of recognising and supporting the skills of Kenya's artisans.

The practical demonstration complemented the day's discussions on strengthening the informal economy, which employs millions of Kenyans and contributes significantly to the country's economic growth

Speaking during the session, President Ruto reiterated his government's commitment to empowering artisans through better access to affordable credit, modern working spaces and markets for their products.

"The people gathered here today are builders of our economy. They create jobs, provide solutions and support thousands of families. My administration will continue investing in programmes that uplift artisans and small businesses," the President said.

He said the government is implementing reforms aimed at making it easier for artisans to access financial services and grow their enterprises, adding that supporting the informal sector remains central to the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.

During the engagement, the President also defended his administration's development record, dismissing criticism that the government had failed to deliver on its promises.

"Mimi si wazimu, mimi si mlevi, mimi si mjinga," Ruto declared, insisting that every government programme announced has been carefully planned and is being implemented for the benefit of Kenyans.

He maintained that investments in affordable housing, markets, road infrastructure, digital opportunities and financing programmes are intended to improve livelihoods and create employment across the country.

The State House meeting provided artisans with an opportunity to showcase their craftsmanship, display locally manufactured products and engage directly with the President on challenges affecting the sector, including access to capital, equipment and market opportunities.