UAE offered President Ruto chartered jet for US trip - State House


The United Arab Emirates government provided President William Ruto with the chartered jet he used for his recent US trip at a cost of less than Sh10 million, State House has announced.

In a statement on Thursday, State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed described the arrangement as "the most efficient and economical."

“As explained by the President on Thursday, the cost of the jet he traveled in for the historic and successful US State visit was offered by friends of Kenya at a relatively low cost. In this specific case, the United Arab Emirates Government provided the aircraft for less than Sh10 million,” read the statement.

He stated that it is common for nations to support and partner with each other for mutual prosperity. Mohamed added that in its international multilateral operations, Kenya acts as a friend, partner, and ally to many countries.


President Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto disembark from the contentious chartered plane in Washington D.C. last week. 


Mohamed said the jet was the most efficient and economical way for the President and his delegation to undertake the trip for under Sh10 million. The State House spokesperson added that the President continues to lead by example in implementing austerity measures to ensure Kenya lives within its means.

"He is encouraged by government ministries, departments and agencies to take the cue and is on course to ensure Kenya records a balanced budget in three years," Mohamed stated.

He mentioned that the recent US trip was not the first time Kenya received donations from the UAE. He recalled a 2018 incident when the Gulf state donated six military-grade FENNEC helicopters and three ECUREUIL trainer aircraft to Kenya. This donation included servicing spares, spare parts, and tools, totaling Sh4 billion in value.

Currently, Mohamed said, the US has offered to donate 16 helicopters and 150 Armored Security Vehicles under an agreement signed during the President's State visit. This includes 150 Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles, scheduled for delivery in September 2024. Additionally, eight utility helicopters will be delivered in September 2024, and eight light utility helicopters will arrive by early 2025, he added.

"Yes, Kenya has friends, and their interest is to have a secure partner state with which they can trade, invest and collaborate," Mohamed assured.

Earlier in the day, Dr. Ruto revealed that the jet cost taxpayers less than Sh10 million, thanks to co-sponsorship from some "friends of Kenya," after he initially offered to travel with Kenya Airways.

Speaking at the annual National Prayer Breakfast at Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi, the Head of State refuted claims that he had spent over Sh200 million on the trip.


President William Ruto, DP Rigathi Gachagua with their wives at the National Prayer Breakfast 2024 this morning at Safari Park, Nairobi. 

"People have given all manner of figures...that the plane cost Sh200 million because the president needed to arrive in style holding Rachel's hand. You know I'm a very responsible citizen, believe me, there is no way I can spend Sh200 million. In fact, let me disclose here that it cost the Republic of Kenya less than Sh10 million," he explained.

In his remarks, Ruto stated there was “no way” he could have spent about $1.5 million (nearly Sh200 million) – the reported cost of hiring the Boeing 737-700 VIP plane. However, his comments sparked backlash from some leaders and Kenyans, with online users questioning who these friends were and if a gift of such magnitude would compromise the president. 



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