In a historic move, Kenya’s President William Ruto fulfilled a long-standing pledge on Friday by granting citizenship to the Pemba community. The President emphasized that this recognition is not only about identity but also about providing access to essential public services for the community.
Addressing the gathering at Karisa Maitha Stadium in Kilifi County, President Ruto expressed his commitment to ending the decades-long statelessness and marginalization endured by the Pemba community. He stated, “This, effectively, ends Pemba community’s statelessness and marginalisation that has lasted for close to 100 years.”
The event also witnessed the distribution of titled deeds to the Pemba community, further securing their rights and land ownership.
Cabinet Secretaries Aisha Jumwa, Salim Mvurya, Kithure Kindiki, Zachariah Njeru, Ezekiel Machogu, and Soipan Tuya, along with Speaker of the Senate Amason Kingi, Governors Gideon Mung’aro (Kilifi), Fatuma Achani (Kwale), and Members of Parliament led by Majority Leader Kimani Ichungw’ah and Deputy Owen Baya, were present to witness the momentous occasion.
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Earlier in the day, President Ruto inaugurated the Administration, Classrooms, and Twin Laboratory Block at St Thomas Girls’ Secondary School in Kilifi Town. He stressed the importance of educating girls and its potential to transform communities and reduce gender disparity. The President also pledged increased resources to support education at the grassroots level, enabling children to reach their full potential.
In Magarini, the Head of State opened the Kichwa Cha Kati Fish Market and provided financial assistance to the fishing community. He highlighted the government’s efforts to invest in the Blue Economy, unlocking untapped potential and ensuring better earnings for coastal residents through value addition and advanced storage facilities.
Governor Gideon Mung’aro urged fellow leaders to work productively with the government for the betterment of Kenya, urging them to refrain from pointless protests.
The citizenship grant to the Pemba community represents a significant step towards inclusivity and recognition of marginalized groups, fostering a sense of belonging and equal opportunities for all citizens.
