President William Ruto’s long-serving aide, Farouk Kibet, has reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting women and youth empowerment initiatives while calling for peace ahead of the upcoming Saba Saba Day commemorations.

Speaking during empowerment drives in Matuga and Msambweni constituencies in Kwale County, Farouk urged leaders and Kenyans at large to steer clear of divisive politics and violence.

He emphasised that development and peace must remain top priorities.

“For those who don’t want us to support women, be warned that you will not succeed,” Farouk said.

“We will continue to support leaders who are focused on development. That is why we are here today. We must continue to support women. When we empower women, we make society better.”

The empowerment programmes, which were hosted by MPs Tandaza, Kassim Sawa, and Feisal Bader, targeted women and small-scale entrepreneurs with financial support and capacity-building resources to enhance their livelihoods.

Farouk also used the occasion to urge calm ahead of Saba Saba Day, observed on July 7, amid rising political temperatures in some quarters.

“Kenya ni yetu sisi wote. Dumisha amani. Say no to chaos and violence, let us engage in dialogue. #SabaSaba2025 should be peaceful and no one should get hurt or lose properties,” he stated.

His remarks were echoed by other leaders present, including Mining Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, who praised the residents of Kwale for rejecting divisive politics and embracing development.

“The people of Kwale County have firmly embraced peace, inclusive development, and national cohesion,” Mvurya said.

“The National Government’s significant investments in Kwale County are a clear demonstration that the Broad-Based Government under the leadership of H.E. President William Ruto has the best interests of the Coastal people at heart.”

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, who also graced the event, called for unity and national cohesion while stressing the importance of empowering women.

“I have championed the empowerment of women for many years, because when you uplift a woman, you uplift a nation,” said Wetang’ula. “But beyond gender, we must also confront a deeper wound—tribal politics. Kenya belongs to all of us, not to one region, one community, or one name.”

The event also drew remarks from other leaders, including Uriri MP Mark Nyamita, who urged young people to reject incitement from political actors.

“The next generation are our future leaders. Let us not incite them while destroying their life,” said Nyamita.

The empowerment programme forms part of an ongoing national initiative aimed at boosting economic inclusion and promoting peaceful coexistence.