Homabay Governor Gladys Wanga praised President William Ruto as a God-fearing leader during a church service at Covenant Church International (CCI) in Narok County. The service marked the 20th anniversary of the church and drew local leaders, community members, and church officials.

Speaking to the congregation, on Sunday, December 28, 2025, Wanga emphasised the role of faith in national development. She said that trust in God and belief in leadership could help Kenyans overcome challenges.

“Bishop alikuwa anasoma kwa Biblia ya Kimasaai, na mimi nilikuwa nasoma kwa Biblia ya Kijaluo. Inasema ya kwamba ‘hakuna kitu inaweza shinda watu ambao wamemwamini Mungu, na Kiongozi wao, ambaye ni Rais wetu, pia anaamini Mungu,” she said.

Wanga addressed criticism surrounding President Ruto’s ambitious plan to model Kenya’s development on Singapore.

“Kwa hivyo, wakati rais wetu anasema tuko kwa safari ya kwenda Singapore, mimi naona kuna watu wanasema haiwezekani. Lakini kumbe hawajasoma ile Biblia. Ya kwamba nchi ambayo watu wanaamini Mungu, na kiongozi wao anaamini Mungu, hakuna kitu inaweza kuwashinda,” she said, stressing that faith and unity can overcome scepticism.

Narok vision

She linked faith with practical development, highlighting Narok’s proposed international airport.

“Na hapa Narok mimi nimekuwa hapa na senator wangu Senator Ledama. Na ikasemekana hapa kwa mara ya kwanza tangu dunia iundwe, Narok itakuwa na international airport. Ndege inatoka ngambo inashuka hapa Narok. Kwa hivyo hii safari ya Singapore. Kumbe Narok na Wamasaai pia wako ndani,” Wanga said.

Wanga’s comments came as some leaders defended the government’s Singapore-inspired development plan. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki said Kenya’s size and history should not limit its ambitions, citing China’s rapid economic growth as evidence that careful long-term planning can deliver remarkable results.

The church service also attracted key figures, including President William Ruto and Senator Ledama Ole Kina. Wanga encouraged residents to support the president’s vision and avoid pessimism. She said that faith and belief in leadership form a strong foundation for transformation.