President William Ruto named among Times 100 most influential people 2024

President Ruto has been named among Time Magazine’s  100 Most Influential People of 2024.

Ruto was recognized for his role in leading calls for climate action that have led to increased climate funding in Africa.

“Kenyan President William Ruto has emerged as a key voice of Africa’s climate ambitions, hosting a summit in Nairobi last September that drew leaders from around the globe. The event concluded with a unanimous agreement from African countries in attendance to rapidly expand renewable energy over the next decade, aided by $23 billion in pledges to catalyze the continent’s climate goals,” Times magazine correspondent Worland said.

“His call for lenders to relieve the debt burden faced by some African countries, thus opening the door for spending on climate solutions, has also made waves”.

Worland however notes that Ruto’s new popularity on the international stage comes amid significant challenges in Kenya, “including last summer’s protests against the rising cost of living and a gas-tax increase” and the president, will “need to will need to manage the challenges at home”.

The Times 100 annual list, compiled by a panel of experts from various fields, celebrates trailblazers who have demonstrated exceptional influence and leadership in their respective domains.

Full list of Times 100 most influential people of 2024