President William Ruto has urged the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) to partner with Kenya in expanding the Affordable Housing Program and supporting ongoing job creation initiatives.
The President made the call on Tuesday at State House, Nairobi, when he hosted His Highness Prince Rahim Al-Husseini Aga Khan V.
Ruto stressed that private sector participation is central to addressing Kenya’s housing shortage while spurring industries and creating opportunities for small businesses. He noted that the Affordable Housing Program is designed not only to deliver dignified shelter but also to stimulate economic growth and empower communities.
“As we celebrate this landmark moment, we equally look to new opportunities to deepen our collaboration in areas at the heart of Kenya’s transformation,” Ruto said. “We welcome your partnership in the Affordable Housing Program, a flagship initiative that will deliver safe and dignified shelter to millions, while creating thousands of jobs, stimulating industries, and expanding opportunities for small enterprises.”
The Head of State also appealed to AKDN to support the Nairobi River Regeneration initiative under the Climate WorkX program, which has already engaged more than 40,000 Kenyans in ecosystem restoration and sustainable urban renewal projects.
During the visit, Ruto conferred the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (CGH), Kenya’s highest state honor, on His Highness Aga Khan in recognition of his decades-long contribution to the country’s development, particularly in education, health, and media.
In response, Aga Khan welcomed Kenya’s development priorities and reaffirmed AKDN’s commitment to strengthening collaboration. He acknowledged the honor with “deep humility and gratitude” while noting that the partnership between Kenya and the Ismaili Imamat has spanned decades.
“Through the work of the Aga Khan Development Network, whether in health, education, culture, economic development, or the environment, our aim has always been to improve the quality of life for all, regardless of background or faith,” Aga Khan said.
He added that AKDN is proud of its role in serving millions of Kenyans “from all walks of life, across the spectrum of human endeavor.”
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