Nairobi, Kenya — President William Ruto has pledged that the government will allocate KSh2 billion in the next financial year to begin settling a debt owed to Methodist University, in a move seen as an effort to mend relations with the church and stabilise higher education financing.
Speaking at State House Nairobi during a meeting with leaders from the Methodist Church in Kenya, the President acknowledged that the government had sponsored students to the university but failed to remit fees on time, leaving the institution under significant financial strain.
“We sent students there, but we did not pay fees promptly. We are now working to raise at least KSh2 billion by June to ease the burden,” President Ruto said.
The meeting brought together senior church and government officials, including Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Presiding Bishop John Maromba, and former Presiding Bishop Joseph Ntombura.
President Ruto revealed that the government owes both public and private universities more than KSh120 billion in unpaid fees. He noted that the new student-centred university funding model has helped stabilise public institutions, preventing potential financial collapse.
The Head of State also outlined key infrastructure projects aimed at boosting regional connectivity and economic growth:
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Nithi Bridge: Construction set to begin soon at a cost of KSh7 billion.
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Makutano–Embu–Meru–Maua Road Expansion: Launch expected before the end of the year to ease congestion.
He further urged church leaders to support the proposed National Infrastructure Fund, which aims to mobilise KSh5 trillion for highways, airports, railways, and large dams.
The President pledged government compensation to the church for land in Nairobi and Mombasa that has been occupied by squatters, noting that relevant offices have been directed to resolve the matter.
In the health sector, he promised government support to equip Mau Methodist Hospital with cancer treatment equipment, with payments to be processed through the Social Health Authority.
President Ruto called on the church to partner with the government in addressing drug abuse among young people, emphasising the role of religious institutions in providing moral guidance.
Deputy President Kindiki praised the Methodist Church for promoting a culture of hard work and saving, while church leaders reaffirmed their commitment to collaborate with the government on development, peace, and justice initiatives.
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