Ruto hails church as a vital partner in advancing govt development agenda
By Cy Muganda, September 3, 2025President William Ruto has emphasised the crucial role of the Church in Kenya’s development, describing the relationship between religious institutions and government as inseparable in driving national progress.
In a statement posted on his X account on September 2, 2025, Ruto highlighted the importance of church-state cooperation while announcing his meeting with senior Anglican Church leaders.
“The Church plays an integral part in the development of our country. The relationship between the Church and the Government is inseparable in driving progress for our people,” Ruto stated.
Meeting with church leaders
Ruto’s comments followed an engagement with Bishop Charles Muturi of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK), Mt. Kenya South Diocese, along with other senior church officials at State House.
“Pleased to meet my longtime friend, Bishop Charles Muturi of ACK Mt. Kenya South Diocese, accompanied by Provost Geoffrey Mungai and Ven. Dr. Richard Kamau,” Ruto said.
During the meeting, the discussions focused on the progress of the Kiambu ACK Cathedral construction, a significant religious infrastructure project in the region.
“We also discussed the progress in the construction of the Kiambu ACK Cathedral, a project that will stand as a beacon of faith and unity for generations,” the President revealed.
Church-state relations
Ruto’s engagement with Anglican Church leaders came days after he pledged Ksh20 million towards the completion of the ACK St Peter’s Cathedral in Siaya, a project that has been stalled for the past two decades.
Speaking during a church service in Siaya County on Sunday, August 31, 2025, Ruto expressed concern about the lengthy delay in completing the cathedral.
He noted that while members of the congregation have managed to build and complete their own homes, the house of God has been neglected.
“Bishop, this cathedral in Siaya has been under construction for twenty years. Just imagine, everyone here has managed to build their own house, yet the house of God is still incomplete. We are here speaking so much English, yet the church is lagging behind,” he stated.
“Because the bishop has shown me that it requires a lot of money, you all will do your part; I will do my part. I will find Ksh20 million to help build this church. God sent me, and I have heard that He is a person of ACK. I am pledging on His behalf Ksh5 million to help complete this church,” he added.