Ruto pledges lesos for women in Taita Taveta heading to India to perform
President William Ruto has jokingly pledged to provide lesos for women in Taita Taveta who are travelling to India to perform.
Speaking while at Taita Taveta Conservancy on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, Ruto praised the local female singers for their talent and encouraged them to represent Kenya well.
He said, “Tuko na maneno ya kina mama, kina mama wa hapa ni waimbaji wazuri sana. Wanaenda mpaka kule India, so siku ile wataenda India, wapitie hapo kwangu niwatafutie mzigo kidogo ya kununua leso wakienda huko. Sawa bwana gavana? Nitapangana na wewe. Ndio wale wanaenda kutuwakilisha huko wawakilishe Kenya vizuri.”
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The president’s remarks came as part of a light-hearted moment during his visit, showing support for the women artists while also explaining their importance in representing the country abroad.
Tsavo West Rhino Sanctuary expansion
The visit also included discussions about conservation and tourism in Taita Taveta. Ruto highlighted the progress of the Tsavo West Rhino Sanctuary, noting its transformation over the past four decades.
“From modest beginnings on a three-square-kilometre land size with three rhinos 40 years ago, the Tsavo West Rhino Sanctuary has advanced into a national and global treasure,” he said.
He explained that the sanctuary has now expanded to at least 3,200 square kilometres, making it the largest of its kind in the world. This expansion not only provides a safe space for more than 200 rhinos but also positions the ecosystem as a major attraction for tourists. Ruto noted that the growth of the sanctuary reflects Kenya’s commitment to conservation while creating opportunities for eco-tourism.
The president concluded by linking both initiatives, encouraging the women artists and conservation efforts to continue putting Kenya on the global map. He said that whether through music or wildlife preservation, these projects showcase the country’s talent, dedication, and potential to the world.
“Its expansion to a 3,200 square kilometres land size – the largest in the world – positions the ecosystem as not only a conservation hub, but also a secure space for our more than 200 rhinos that will attract more tourists to Kenya,” Ruto said.
