President William Ruto has urged Kenyans to take collective responsibility in instilling good values in children.
Speaking during the commissioning of the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) campus in Kerio Valley,
he emphasized the need for a united approach involving parents, religious organizations, and the government to combat social ills and moral decline.
“We must adopt a whole-of-society approach,” President Ruto stated.
“Parents must play a central role, ensuring their children are not only in school but also guided and mentored to build good character.
This way, we can protect them from bad influences and secure the future of our nation.”
The President’s call comes amidst growing online activism by the youth, often critical of the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Ruto’s remarks align with those of his deputy, Prof. Kithure Kindiki, who has repeatedly stressed the importance of mentorship.
“Young people are incredibly talented and innovative,” Kindiki said in a previous event.
“But many shy away from mentorship, believing they know everything.
This mindset is dangerous. No matter how gifted you are, mentorship is essential—it’s a principle recognized across all religions, philosophies, and cultures.”
President Ruto has consistently highlighted the importance of values in shaping the nation’s future.
In December 2024, while attending a wedding in Mombasa, he urged parents to be proactive in combating rising crime rates and social problems such as femicide and drug trafficking.
He dismissed finger-pointing and urged families to take responsibility for their children’s upbringing.
“The criminals we encounter are our own children,” Ruto noted.
“It is our duty to guide them and ensure they don’t turn to crime. The government can support, but it cannot replace this critical parental role.”
Despite these challenges, the President reaffirmed his government’s commitment to delivering essential services like education and healthcare while firmly addressing criminal activities.
“We will intervene decisively to deal with offenders—those who kill, traffic drugs, or engage in femicide and other unlawful acts,” he assured.
