Deputy President William Ruto took a firm stand during a public event on Friday, May 26, as he addressed the Principal Secretary for the State Department for MSMEs, Susan Mang'eni, regarding the management of the Kenya Industrial Estates (KIE). The agency's officials had failed to adequately respond to concerns raised by entrepreneurs in Embu.

During a question-and-answer session, Ruto noticed that one of the senior managers from KIE had left the forum, leading him to direct PS Mang'eni to investigate the agency's management.

When two delegates from KIE attempted to answer questions on behalf of the absent manager, Ruto intervened, stating that they lacked knowledge of their mandate. Dissatisfied with their response, he sought clarification on how Tanya, a cottage manufacturer, and Omondi, a local block producer, could obtain financial assistance.

PS Mang'eni from the Co-operative Ministry stepped in to address the concerns, explaining the loan facilities available at KIE for manufacturing entrepreneurs and their efforts to streamline operations. Ruto acknowledged her response but also urged her to ensure effective management of the agency.

Throughout the event, Ruto called upon his Cabinet members, including Trade CS Moses Kuria, to provide clear answers and timelines to address the issues raised by business owners. The Deputy President emphasized the importance of supporting entrepreneurs and held his officials accountable.

Towards the end of the event, Ruto received a locally made bag from Tanya, an entrepreneur present at the forum. Tanya took the opportunity to offer Ruto her portfolio, expressing her interest in a government job.

Ruto's visit to Embu was part of his tour ahead of the Madaraka Day celebrations scheduled to take place in the county on Thursday, June 1, 2023.