William Ruto has praised Kenya’s education system and language skills during a public appearance in Italy, saying the country stands out for both schooling and clear English.
Speaking to an international audience, he said Kenya has some of the best human capital in the world and only needs more training to sharpen its strengths.
Ruto stressed that Kenyan students receive solid education and develop strong communication skills. He pointed out that English is widely spoken and well mastered across the country, making Kenya competitive on the global stage.
In a lighter moment, Ruto joked about how English sounds in other countries. Referring to Nigerians, he said that when you listen to some speakers, you might need a translator even though they are speaking English. His comment drew laughter from the audience and quickly spread online.
The remark came shortly after comments from Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who had addressed citizens in Bayelsa State about rising fuel prices. Tinubu acknowledged that the cost of fuel is painful but urged Nigerians to remain thankful, adding that conditions are even tougher in countries like Kenya and others across Africa. His statement did not sit well with many Kenyans, especially at a time when the country has faced protests led by young people over the rising cost of living and fuel.
Ruto used his speech to shift the focus back to Kenya’s strengths, highlighting the value of its people. He said the country’s workforce is skilled and capable, and with further training, it can compete anywhere in the world.
This is not the first time the two leaders have exchanged playful remarks. In the past, Ruto joked that Nigerian men often marry Kenyan women, including his own daughter, humorously calling it a kind of brain drain.
Data from the EF English Proficiency Index shows Kenya ranking third globally in English proficiency, while Nigeria holds fifth place. South Africa leads the rankings, followed by Zimbabwe and Zambia. Both Kenya and Nigeria use English as an official language, though accents and speaking styles vary widely.
Online reactions have been mixed. Some people see the comments as harmless jokes between two leaders, while others believe they could fuel a new sense of rivalry between the nations.
