Ruto awards prime Upper Hill land to St John Ambulance, pledges Ksh500M for construction
By Ndiritu Wanjiru, June 21, 2026President William Ruto has pledged to allocate land in Nairobi’s Upper Hill area to St. John Ambulance Kenya, a move aimed at strengthening the organisation’s capacity to provide emergency medical and humanitarian services across the country.
Speaking during the 95th St. John Ambulance Annual Parade and Inspection at State House in Nairobi on Sunday, June 21, 2026, President Ruto directed that the land allocation process be expedited, assuring the institution that it would receive a title deed through the Ministry of Lands.
“We will give you land at Upper Hill. Tomorrow, collect your title deed at the Ministry of Lands,” Ruto said.
Ruto pledges Ksh500M for headquarters’ project
Ruto has further announced a Ksh500 million funding package to support St John Ambulance Kenya in building a modern national headquarters.
Of the Ksh500 million, Parliament will contribute Ksh300 million toward the construction, following an agreement brokered between St John Ambulance Kenya and the Speaker of Parliament.
“I have also engaged the Speaker of Parliament, and between St. John’s Ambulance Kenya and Parliament, you have agreed that you will surrender the small building you have near Parliament, and Parliament is going to give Ksh300 million for you to be able to build your new headquarters,” President Ruto announced.
Boost for Emergency Response Services
The pledge is expected to provide a significant boost to St. John Ambulance Kenya, which has played a critical role in offering first aid, emergency response, disaster preparedness, and community health services for decades.
A parcel of land in Upper Hill, one of Nairobi’s prime commercial and institutional districts, could pave the way for the construction of a modern headquarters, training facilities, or an emergency response centre to enhance the organisation’s operations.
President Ruto’s commitment underscores the government’s broader agenda of supporting institutions that provide essential public services. The head of state has repeatedly emphasised the importance of partnerships between the government and non-state actors in improving healthcare delivery and emergency response mechanisms.
St. John Ambulance Kenya relies heavily on trained volunteers who provide first aid services during public events, emergencies, and disasters, often working alongside government agencies and healthcare providers.
Additionally, Ruto promised to purchase 15 new ambulances for the organisation to boost their response work. Further, the head of state revealed that his administration is contemplating raising St. John Ambulance’s annual budget to Ksh100 million.
Recognition of St. John Ambulance’s Contribution
The land allocation is also seen as recognition of the organisation’s long-standing contribution to saving lives and promoting public safety. Over the years, St. John Ambulance Kenya has trained thousands of Kenyans in first aid and emergency preparedness, helping communities respond effectively during accidents and disasters.
If implemented as directed, the land grant could mark a major milestone for the organisation, providing a permanent base from which it can expand its services and reach more Kenyans in need of emergency medical assistance.