By Patricia Mollyne Mataga
American news magazine, TIME Magazine has named President William Ruto among the 100 most influential people in the world this year.
Ruto was among only two Kenyans that made it to the 2024 list.
He was listed alongside Kennedy Odede, a philanthropist and founder as well as Chief Executive Officer of Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO).
According to TIME Magazine, Ruto, serving his first term as Kenya’s President made it to the list for emerging as a key voice of Africa’s climate ambitions.
The New York-based magazine also cited Ruto’s new eminence on the global stage.
“His (Ruto’s) call for lenders to relieve the debt burden faced by some African countries, thus opening the door for spending on climate solutions, has made waves,” said TIMES Magazine senior correspondent Justin Worland.
“But Ruto’s new prominence 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 Ruto spearheaded, as well as this January’s demonstrations against allegations of judicial interference,” he added.
However, Worland noted that for the Head of State to continue progressing abroad, he will need to manage challenges at home.
This is the second year in a rwo that Ruto has been recognized by TIME Magazine.
Last year, he was recognized for championing climate change.
Several other prominent Africans also made it to the list for their impact on humanity in different fields.
Out of the 100 individuals listed, 51 were women. They include Kylie Minogue, Dua Lipa, Fantasia Barrino, Taraji P. Henson, Alia Bhatt, Lauren Groff and Kelly Ripa.
Popular Nigerian singer Burna Boy also made it to the list alongside other artists among them Elliot Page, Dua Lipa, 21 Savage, Jeffrey Wright, Kylie Minogue, Fantasia Barrino, America Ferrera, and Maya Rudolph.