This archive report was first published on 2 July 2021.
On July 2, 2021, Deputy President William Ruto officially opened the eight-storey Kamukunji Gateway Mall in Nairobi's Kamukunji area, marking a significant milestone in the region's business growth.
"Opened the eight-storey Kamukunji Gateway Mall, whose proprietor began as a mitumba businesswoman and engaged local traders in Kamukunji, Nairobi County," Ruto stated in a statement.
The mall, which will house numerous businesses and shops, is expected to create employment opportunities for hundreds of Kenyans.
Ruto emphasized the need for the government to facilitate the rise of start-ups and the flourishing of small businesses in the country, stating that this approach would produce more jobs, create more wealth for ordinary people, and generate more taxes to aid government functions.
He also expressed his concern that Kenya was in dire need of economic recovery, rather than amending the constitution through the Building Bridges Initiative.
"Kenya's problem is not the constitution and neither is it tribalism. We have to fix the policies and economy that will offer employment and expand businesses," Ruto said.
During his visit to Kamukunji, the business community urged Ruto to address their plight if his 2022 presidential bid is successful.
"When we make the next budget, if God so wishes, we will not start with the national or county governments, but rather we will prioritise funds that will help the business community," Ruto assured.
He also pledged to avail at least Sh30 billion to support small businesses every year if elected President in 2022.
