Speaking during an economic empowerment forum in the Rift Valley region, Kindiki said the government stepped in at a critical moment when international conflicts, fluctuating oil prices and supply chain disruptions threatened to worsen the already high cost of living.
He maintained that without the fuel subsidy programme, fuel prices would have skyrocketed further, leading to increased transport costs and a sharp rise in food prices across the country.
The Deputy President noted that the ongoing conflicts in parts of Europe and the Middle East have had a direct impact on global fuel markets, forcing many countries, including Kenya, to adopt emergency measures to protect citizens from economic hardship.
According to Kindiki, the government’s subsidy programme helped stabilise fuel prices and prevented a major economic crisis that could have severely affected businesses, farmers and ordinary households.
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At the same time, he defended the fertiliser reform programme introduced by President William Ruto’s administration, saying it has significantly lowered production costs for farmers while boosting food security.
He argued that affordable fertiliser has enabled farmers to increase acreage under cultivation and improve yields, especially in key agricultural regions.
Kindiki said the government had distributed subsidised fertiliser to thousands of farmers across the country, helping reduce the burden on small-scale producers who were struggling with rising farm input costs.
He added that increased agricultural production would eventually lower food prices and strengthen the country’s economy.
The Deputy President dismissed criticism from opposition leaders who have questioned the effectiveness of the subsidy programmes, accusing them of politicising initiatives designed to help vulnerable Kenyans.
He said the reforms were based on long-term economic planning rather than short-term political interests.
He further assured Kenyans that the government remains committed to implementing additional measures aimed at reducing the cost of living, creating jobs and supporting local industries.
Kindiki also urged Kenyans to remain patient as the administration continues to navigate global economic challenges that have affected many developing economies worldwide.
He insisted that despite the difficulties, the country was gradually moving toward economic recovery and stability.
His remarks come at a time when the government is under growing pressure to address concerns over rising fuel prices, inflation and the increasing cost of essential goods and services.
