A vegetable vendor popularly known as mama mboga told President William Ruto that her marriage fell apart because she supported his presidency in the run up to the 2022 elections.
While speaking during a townhall meeting at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) about unemployment on the evening of Monday, December 9, Esther Mwangi attributed the fallout to her husband belonging to a different political camp.
“We contributed a lot to supporting this government. Many of our marriages fell apart, like mine, because our men were in other political camps. I had a problem—my husband belonged to another camp, and I belonged to your camp. I thank God,” Esther said.
She further told President Ruto that, despite her sacrifices to ensure he won the presidency, which led to her marriage falling apart, she had not benefited from Kenya Kwanza Government programs like the Kazi Mtaani Initiative, jobs abroad (kazi majuu) spearheaded by Labour CS Alfred Mutua, and the elderly support program.
Ruto urged to find a place for Mama Mboga in his government
She added that, at 46 years old, she does not qualify for the elderly program. She then posed a question to President Ruto: “What plans do you have for Mama Mbogas in your government?”
Her question to the President was met with cheers and applause from the audience gathered at the town hall, along with a laugh from President Ruto.
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In his response, the Head of State told Esther that the government would employ her children, from which she would benefit indirectly. He added that this criterion would also apply to all “mama mbogas” who have children and are currently unemployed.
“You have been blessed with children by God. If you have not had the privilege of finding a job, prepare your child for employment so that they can secure an employment opportunity with the government. You will liaise with the Labour CS to ensure that happens,” Ruto said.
President assures mama mbogas that he will take care of them
Additionally, Ruto promised that he would build a decent marketplace for “mama mbogas.” He stated that his government is currently constructing 200 market stalls for “mama mbogas,” with most of them nearing completion.
He further pledged that he will provide a free healthcare for them through the Taifa care and also provide a decent housing for them through the Affordable Housing Program.
Also Read: Ruto Under Pressure to Appoint Mama Mboga to Cabinet
Elsewhere, President Ruto announced an increase in the Hustler Fund loan limit, tripling the amount to 1.5 million Kenyans.
Speaking during the anniversary of the fund, Ruto said that other borrowers will be rewarded for repaying the loans and saving continuously.
The initiatives aim to further empower the underserved population and drive financial inclusion.
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