Kenyans react to Rachel Ruto's claim that Ugandan land is fertile because of prayers

First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto has ignited a debate among Kenyans with her recent remarks suggesting that Ugandans don't use fertiliser due to the country's fertility resulting from East African Revival Prayers.

Her comments have drawn criticism and sparked discussions across the nation.

Rachel Ruto - Uganda is fertile because of the East African Revival Prayers

During a Thanksgiving service at KICC on April 15, Mama Rachel asserted that Ugandans have been blessed with fertile land and abundant rainfall.

She attributed this phenomenon to the East African revival prayers that swept through Uganda in the 1930s, suggesting that divine intervention blessed the country with fertile land and abundant rains.

She contrasted this with Kenya's reliance on fertilisers for farming, suggesting that Uganda's agricultural success is due to divine intervention rather than agricultural practices.

"In Kenya, we have to plant with fertilisers. but Ugandans don't plant with fertlisers. In 2022, when I visited Uganda, I realised the country was green while in Kenya it was dry and many people suffering due to drought. Apostle Subi told me he was so shocked when he came to Kenya and found people planting with fertilisers.

"I got an answer the other day. The reason why Uganda is very fertile and it has been raining is because of the  East Africa Revival that swept Uganda and some parts of East Africa," Rachel explained.

She encouraged those present at the Thanksgiving service to embrace prayer and maintain an attitude of gratitude towards God for all blessings.

Furthermore, Rachel expressed her aspiration for Kenya to adopt a Thanksgiving holiday akin to that celebrated in the United States, dedicated to prayer and expressions of gratitude.

Reaction from Kenyans

The First Lady's remarks have elicited mixed reactions from Kenyans, with many expressing skepticism and criticism.

Call for fact-checking & evidence-based policies

The controversy surrounding Mama Rachel's remarks underscores the importance of evidence-based policymaking and the need for public figures to verify information before making public statements.

A section of Kenyans emphasised the role of scientific research and data-driven approaches in addressing agricultural challenges rather than relying solely on prayer.

Critics highlighted the achievements of past First Ladies in championing impactful initiatives, contrasting them with Mama Rachel's focus on prayer.

Others argued that attributing Uganda's agricultural success solely to divine intervention overlooks other factors such as soil quality, climate, and agricultural policies.

They pointed out that Uganda's geographical advantages, including abundant water sources and minimal desertification, contribute significantly to its agricultural productivity.

Reflecting on the role of leadership

Mama Rachel's comments also prompt reflection on the role of leadership in addressing societal issues.

While prayer and gratitude are important aspects of faith, critics argue that leaders should prioritise practical solutions backed by evidence and expertise to tackle complex challenges such as food security and agricultural sustainability.