President William Ruto .PHOTO:William Ruto
In Summary:
1) President Ruto discusses the internet’s use for ‘kusalimiana’—sending messages—rather than its potential for digital jobs and e-commerce.
2) He emphasizes the government’s commitment to improving internet access for digital opportunities and economic growth.
President William Ruto has addressed the use of the internet by Kenyans, highlighting its current focus on ‘kusalimiana’, or sending greetings, rather than its potential benefits.
During the Linzi Sukuk Bell-Ringing Ceremony at the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) in Westlands, Nairobi, Ruto observed that the internet is increasingly used for sending messages of encouragement rather than for constructive purposes such as accessing digital jobs.
“As we enhance internet accessibility, it should serve as a tool for finding digital employment and boosting e-commerce. Instead, it seems to be predominantly used for ‘kusalimiana’,” Ruto stated.
He reflected on the unintended use of the internet since the introduction of free Wi-Fi across Kenya, which was meant to facilitate productive uses.
“Sometimes, you can become the architect of your own issues. Our goal was for the internet to foster positive activities, but it is often used to send us encouraging messages.”
Despite this, the President reiterated his administration’s commitment to expanding internet connectivity to every ward, aiming to provide more opportunities for digital jobs and economic activities.
“I am looking forward to developments in digital commerce, including trading government bonds, shares, and forex. This will enable those connected to the internet across Kenya to access various digital job opportunities and participate in more e-commerce,” Ruto added.
The term ‘kusalimiana’, meaning ‘greeting’, gained prominence during the 2024 Finance Bill debate when lawmakers’ personal phone numbers were leaked online, leading to a flood of messages urging them to oppose the bill.