By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Kenya, 23 July 2026 - President William Ruto has pledged to extend government support to millions of Kenyans working in the informal sector, saying planned income-boosting measures will ensure artisans, traders and self-employed workers are not left behind after the recent salary increase for civil servants.
Addressing more than 5,000 Nairobi County artisans at State House on Thursday, Ruto said the government's economic policies are intended to benefit all workers, regardless of whether they earn a monthly salary.
He announced that civil servants would begin receiving their salary increments from August 1, adding that similar interventions are being developed for Kenyans who earn their living through informal businesses.
"I have already directed that government workers, those who receive payslips, get a pay increase from August 1. Just as we are taking care of other workers, I must also make arrangements for you because Kenya is not only for those who receive payslips; it is for everyone," Ruto said.
The President described artisans and small-scale entrepreneurs as key drivers of the country's economy, saying they deserve equal government support despite operating outside formal employment.
"I understand that you do not have payslips, but you are business owners, you are artisans, you are Kenyans," he added.
Beyond improving earnings, Ruto said the government will help artisans access workspaces, designated markets and official certification through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) programme, which recognises skills acquired outside formal education.
He said the government will fund artisans' registration under the programme, revealing that 40,000 workers have already received recognised qualifications, enabling them to access better employment opportunities and compete for government contracts.
More from Kenya
The President also defended his administration's development agenda, dismissing critics who have questioned the government's priorities.
"Mimi si wazimu, mimi si mlevi, mimi si mjinga" (I am not insane, I am not a drunkard, I am not foolish). Everything we are doing in this government is well planned and has a purpose. We are building roads, markets, affordable housing and creating jobs for young people because we want to transform the lives of Kenyans," he said.
Ruto maintained that his administration would remain focused on implementing development projects despite political criticism.
"Others can say whatever they want, but we will not be distracted by noise. Our job is to ensure Kenyans receive development and opportunities to become self-reliant," he said.
He urged Kenyans to judge his government by the impact of its projects rather than political rhetoric, saying empowering the informal sector remains central to his administration's economic agenda.
The meeting focused on expanding opportunities for artisans through infrastructure, skills development, access to credit and improved business environments as the government seeks to strengthen one of Kenya's largest sources of employment.