Gachagua hails Kenya, says it can become Africa’s United States
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has praised Kenya, saying it has the potential of becoming Africa’s version of the United States.
Speaking during an engagement with Kenyans living in California, United States, on Monday, August 11, 2025, the former second-in-command described Kenyans as hardworking and resilient people.
You might also like
He expressed his appreciation for the warm reception he had received and noted the strong sense of unity among the Kenyan community abroad.
Gachagua praises Kenyans
“I am amazed by the love the Kenyan people have accorded to me, alongside their unity and love. Most profoundly, I am more than excited by the culture of hard work you exported here in the U.S.
“I am so happy, Kenyans have created businesses that have succeeded. That makes me believe that Kenya, we are okay, provided that we are given the right systems and working environment,” he said.
Mr Gachagua said his interactions with Kenyans abroad had reinforced his belief that the country’s greatest resource is its people.
He added that Kenya has capable personnel who can bring about transformation, provided that governance systems are strengthened and made to function effectively.
“We have the personnel back in Kenya to transform our country; we only need to fix the systems and make them work. You guys have succeeded here because here, the systems are working,” he added.
Gachagua’s earlier outburst
The remarks in California come just days after Mr Gachagua made comments reflecting on his time as deputy president.
Speaking at a forum in Olathe, Kansas City, during his ongoing two-month visit to the U.S., he noted that he had been privy to important discussions during his tenure.
“I was a deputy president in this government when many meetings took place, and I have all the details… And we are giving those details to the Americans. And we are right here in America,” he told the gathering.
Mr Gachagua is currently touring various states in the United States to meet Kenyans living abroad.
The meetings are aimed at engaging the diaspora on issues affecting them and discussing ways to contribute to Kenya’s development.
His trip has also included sharing his thoughts on governance, development opportunities, and the importance of effective systems to support progress back home.
