President Ruto’s Sh20m Eid gift to Kisumu Muslims

President William Ruto has pledged Sh20 million towards the reconstruction of Kisumu Jamia Mosque in Kisumu City.

He made the pledge during an Eid ul-Fitr luncheon he hosted for Muslims at State Lodge Kisumu, promising continued support for the community during the construction of the mosque.

“I have heard your request to construct the mosque, and this donation will serve as the initial funding for the reconstruction of Kisumu Jamia Mosque,” he said.

The pledge followed a request by local Muslim leaders, who appealed the President for support towards the planned expansion of the mosque to enhance its capacity.

The mosque was constructed in the early part of the last century, and due to the increasing number of Muslims, its current capacity can barely accommodate the growing congregation.

The Eid luncheon, held in the lakeside city, was the first of its kind to be hosted by a Kenyan head of state.

Joining the faithful in the Eid al-Fitr celebrations, the President highlighted the values of sacrifice, devotion, charity, and reflection observed during the holy month of Ramadan.

“We join the Muslim community in celebrating Eid al-Fitr following the sacred month of Ramadan, a time of sacrifice, devotion, prayer, charity, and reflection,” he said.

He noted that the occasion serves as a reminder of faith, unity, and gratitude, urging Kenyans to extend kindness to the less fortunate and foster harmony within communities.

“I sincerely thank the Muslim community for their steadfast prayers for our nation and the vital role they play in fostering peace, harmony, and spiritual strength across the country,” he added.

Speakers at the event encouraged Kenyans to coexist peacefully by overcoming religious differences.

The President is on a development tour of the lakeside city, during which he is expected to launch the second phase of the SGR railway from Kisumu to Malaba, linking Kenya with Uganda.

“This piece of infrastructure is very important; it will transform Kisumu City, which was originally built around the railway, and we are revitalising it,” he said.

Speaking at the event, Suna East MP Junet Mohammed commended the President for addressing extrajudicial actions against Muslims, noting that such incidents were prevalent in previous administrations.

“Muslims suffered most from the pattern of extrajudicial killings and disappearances. More than 500 people are still missing, and their whereabouts remain unknown to this day,” he said.

Leaders present at the event included Kisumu Governor Professor Anyang’ Nyong’o, ODM Party leader Oburu Oginga, and Kisumu East MP Shakeel Shabbir, among others.