Deputy President William Ruto, who is currently in Sudan on an official trip, has announced an agreement with the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) to help in funding the Big Four agenda in the next five years.
The DP expressed his delight in striking the deal as it would go a long way in helping the government achieve most of its objectives.
"We acknowledge the impact our vital partner, the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) has on our inclusive, sustainable growth, especially on food security and universal healthcare, key planks of the Big Four.
"The Bank has agreed to extend its facilities to more projects in healthcare, including a Sh1.6 billion four-storey 200-bed burns unit and a 150-bed paediatric centre at the Kenyatta National Hospital; a Cancer centre at Kisii hospital and a trauma unit at Salgaa to attend to road accident patients..." stated the DP.
[caption caption="Photo of Ruto During the Meeting"]
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BADEA Bank acting Director Dr Tigan Najeh added that the fund’s team would soon meet Kenyan officials to discuss priority areas.
Speaking during a meeting with Kenyan delegation led by Ruto at its Khartoum offices in Sudan, Dr Najeh asserted that the fund was keen to assist Kenya achieve its goals in food production and healthcare.
“I am happy with the level of cooperation with Kenya and we are keen to extend it to more projects,” he remarked.
Irrigation, roads, rural electrification, water projects and job creation are also part of the plan.
Ruto also met Kenyan students studying in Khartoum and commended their efforts in marketing Kenya as a tourist destination.
"Kenyans living and studying abroad are our brand ambassadors. We value your contribution to market the country as an investment and tourist destination; to economic growth through remittances back home and talent development.
"We urge students to take advantage of the Government's one year paid internship to build skills and competencies that will prepare them to compete in the job market," he stated.
[caption caption="DP Ruto with Kenyan Students Studying in Sudan"]
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