President William Ruto is currently in Saudi Arabia for a summit that will bring together investors and other delegates.
The Head of State is expected to attend the inaugural Saudi-African Summit.
Ruto was received by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud – Deputy Governor of Riyadh.
The President traveled out of the country after his State of the Nation Address which was held in parliament on Thursday, November 9.
Despite some Azimio legislators led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna snubbing the invite, the President highlighted some of his achievements and promises for the future.
The fertilizer subsidy program, Hustler Fund, revamping the health sector, and reviving the economy were among the issues highlighted by Ruto.
However, a section of Kenyans criticised his address arguing that it was underwhelming for failing to touch on pertinent issues such as increased taxes and high cost of living.
His travel to Saudi Arabia also came at a time when Kenyans had raised concerns over his frequent foreign trips.
However, he defended the travels arguing that they were key to finding more job opportunities and securing investments in the country.
“There are those who say I am flying out a lot, but they forget I’m the country’s chief ambassador and I have to look for job opportunities for Kenyans,” Ruto said.
On his recent trip to Saudi Arabia, the president said he managed to create job opportunities for 350,000 Kenyans as Saudis want their services because they are the best.
Previously, Ruto had announced the government has reduced travel expenditure by up to Ksh11 billion.
According to a report by the Controller of Budget, for the year starting July 2022 and June 2023, total expenditure for the Presidency was Ksh20.1 billion, with foreign travel accounting for Ksh361.7 million.
