President William Ruto has called on the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) to partner with Kenya in scaling up the Affordable Housing Programme, a key pillar of the government’s economic agenda.
Speaking at the State House, Nairobi, on Tuesday, when he hosted His Highness Prince Rahim Al-Husseini Aga Khan V at State House Nairobi, Ruto emphasised that private sector participation is crucial to bridging the housing deficit and creating jobs.
The President explained that the Affordable Housing Programme is designed not only to provide safe and dignified shelter to millions of Kenyans but also to stimulate industries and expand opportunities for small enterprises.
Ruto noted that the government welcomes AKDN’s participation to fast-track delivery and enhance community impact.
Ruto also urged the Aga Khan to support the Nairobi River Regeneration initiative under the Climate WorkX programme, which has already engaged 40,000 Kenyans. His Highness Aga Khan V, is the 50th Hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and Chair of AKDN.
"As we celebrate this landmark moment, we equally look to new opportunities to deepen our collaboration in areas at the heart of Kenya’s transformation. We welcome your partnership in the Affordable Housing Programme, a flagship initiative that will deliver safe and dignified shelter to millions, while creating thousands of jobs, stimulating industries, and expanding opportunities for small enterprises," Ruto noted.
"We also seek to work closely with you on the Nairobi River Regeneration through the Climate WorkX programme, which is already engaging 40,000 Kenyans in Nairobi in meaningful work to restore ecosystems, clean rivers, and create sustainable urban spaces."
Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (CGH)
Meanwhile, during the meeting, Ruto also conferred the country’s highest honours (Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (CGH)), in recognition of the Aga Khan’s contribution to Kenya’s development, particularly in health, education, and media.
The Aga Khan acknowledged Kenya’s development priorities and reaffirmed AKDN’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the country, citing decades of collaboration in sectors that improve the quality of life for communities.
"I therefore accept this great honour with deep humility and gratitude. It is a privilege to be here today among the leaders of a nation with which the Ismaili Imamat shares a long friendship, profound respect and deepening partnership," he noted while acknowledging the award.
"Through the work of the Aga Khan Development Network, whether in health, education, culture, economic development, or the environment, our aim has always been to improve the quality of life for all, regardless of background or faith. We are proud that our programmes and institutions serve millions of Kenyans from all walks of life, across the spectrum of human endeavour."
