President William Ruto has been named as one of the most influential Africans in 2023 by the New African Magazine.
According to the publication, Ruto overcame challenges including pressure from the opposition in 2023 in a show of resilience and determination to stick to his agenda.
In particular, the New African Magazine explained how Ruto chose to stick to his decision of scrapping subsidies in line with requirements of Kenya’s financial partners.
As per the magazine, his firmness on scrapping fuel and food subsidies played a central role in attracting the institutions which helped Kenya avert a debt crisis.
“Yet he has faced down a series of unofficial strikes called for by the opposition leader Raila Odinga, while sticking to his agenda to remove food and fuel subsidies, to attract much-needed financial support from the Bretton Woods institutions and to reduce the nation’s external debts,” the Magazine’s article read in part.
Ruto at Global Stage
Besides local influence, the Magazine said Ruto is already making his mark at the global stage from climate change negotiations to Africa’s position in the corridors of power.
In describing him, the editors said Ruto has cut a bold, charismatic figure in the international stage as was projected in the inaugural Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi.
Ruto staked his reputation as a global leader of substance and led Africa to securing $23bn of green funding from the summit.
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Kenyan Opposition
Also, the editors explained how Ruto headed the government and delivered his manifesto despite pressure from the opposition.
Also Read: Ruto Ranked Among Top 100 Most Influential World Leaders
Visa Abolishment
Additionally, the editors said Ruto’s decision to end of visa requirements for all visitors Kenya will lead to a considerable upsurge of business and leisure visitors and lay the basis for increased investments especially in manufacturing and services.
This comes just a month after American ‘Time Magazine’ named Ruto as one of the world’s 100 most influential leaders.
Also Read: List of Kenyans Previously Ranked by The Times Magazine
Kenyans on the List
Other Kenyans on the list include, Equity Bank CEO James Mwangi, historian Chao Maina, Climate and Strategist James Irungu.
Also in the list is Environmentalist Wanjira Mathai, Celebrity Chef Ali Mandhry, filmmaker Wanuri Kahiu, Marathoner Kelvin Kiptum, World 1500 champion Faith Kipyegon and CNN reporter Larry Madowo.
