During the National Prayer Breakfast, President William Ruto apologized to Tanzania and Kenya’s Gen Z, addressing recent diplomatic strains and youth grievances.
At the 22nd National Prayer Breakfast held in Nairobi on May 28, 2025, President William Ruto extended public apologies to both Tanzania and Kenya’s Generation Z, aiming to mend strained diplomatic and domestic relations.
Addressing the assembly, Ruto stated:
“From Tanzania, if we have wronged you in any way, please forgive us. Our friends from Uganda, if we have wronged you in any way, please forgive us.”
This gesture follows recent diplomatic tensions sparked by the deportation of six Kenyan citizens from Tanzania during the trial of opposition leader Tundu Lissu.
The incident led to a surge of criticism on social media and calls from Tanzanian lawmakers for Kenya to address perceived disrespect towards President Samia Suluhu.
In the same address, Ruto turned his attention to Kenya’s youth, acknowledging past governmental missteps:
“To our children, if there has been any misstep, we apologise. To our neighbours, if there has been any misstep, forgive us. We want to build relationships that will move our countries forward.”
This apology comes in the wake of last year’s Gen Z-led protests against the Finance Bill, during which youths faced arrests and internet shutdowns.
American pastor and former NFL player Rickey Bolden, speaking at the event, emphasized the need for leaders to acknowledge and apologize for these actions, stating that Gen Z seeks respect and inclusion in national discourse.
The National Prayer Breakfast served as a platform for reconciliation, with Tanzanian and Kenyan lawmakers participating in a joint choir performance, symbolizing a commitment to regional unity.
