Jesus Winner Ministries: The Church William Ruto Pledged Ksh 100 Million To
Over the weekend, President William Ruto made a significant donation to Jesus Winner Ministries in Roysambu, raising eyebrows and sparking a debate. Ruto, who has previously implemented strict measures to curb church donations from state officials, surprised many with his pledge. At the church service, the President pledged to help raise Ksh 100 million for the church’s cause. He also made a personal donation of Ksh 20 million to kickstart the fundraising.
The Key Donation: Ksh 100 Million Pledge
During the service, Ruto spoke candidly about his faith and the importance of giving. He mentioned that he was a “product of giving to God” and that he was unapologetic about his contributions. His donation of Ksh 20 million was just the beginning. The President emphasized that his commitment to the church was not limited to his contribution but extended to mobilizing his friends and allies to raise an additional Ksh 100 million for Jesus Winner Ministries.
“I have agreed that we will do a Harambee, but I will personally give Ksh 20 million first. In the contribution, I also want to be given my polling station. I will arrange with my friends to raise Ksh 100 million,” Ruto stated. This statement reflects his belief in the power of collective giving and the importance of supporting the church, which has a significant presence in the community.
Jesus Winner Ministries: Background and Leadership
Jesus Winner Ministries, led by Pastor Edward Mwai, is one of the most prominent churches in Kenya. The church’s headquarters is located on TRM Drive along Thika Road, in Roysambu. The church has been a beacon of hope and support to its members, many of whom are drawn from the surrounding neighborhoods. Pastor Mwai, along with his wife, Agnes Mwai, have been instrumental in the growth and expansion of the church since its inception.
The Roysambu branch of Jesus Winner Ministries was launched on August 23, 2013. Since then, the church has grown exponentially, attracting thousands of followers. Over the years, the church has undertaken various charitable initiatives, including feeding programs and support for marginalized communities. The church’s influence has spread throughout Kenya, with branches in other regions, contributing significantly to the spiritual and social development of many Kenyans.
Controversy Surrounding Donations by State Officials
President Ruto’s donation to Jesus Winner Ministries has caused a stir, particularly because of his previous stance on donations from state officials. In July 2024, amid rising youth-led protests against the government, President Ruto announced a series of austerity measures. One of the key measures was a ban on church donations by state officials, citing concerns about the misuse of public funds and the ethical implications of such donations. This stance was meant to curb the perception that government officials were using their positions to gain favor from religious leaders.
However, Ruto’s latest contribution to Jesus Winner Ministries has raised questions about his position on this issue. Critics argue that his actions contradict his earlier stance and that such donations may be seen as an attempt to gain political mileage or favor with influential religious groups. Despite the controversy, Ruto remains steadfast in his belief that supporting the church and religious organizations is a personal matter rooted in faith.
Ruto’s Support for the Church and Land Dispute Resolution
During his visit to Jesus Winner Ministries, Ruto also addressed an ongoing land dispute involving the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF). The KDF had previously contested the ownership of a 20-acre parcel of land in Roysambu, where Pastor Mwai plans to build a new church. The land was initially associated with Uchumi Supermarkets, a publicly listed retailer that collapsed under heavy debt. The dispute over the land’s ownership had caused uncertainty and delayed Pastor Mwai’s plans for expansion.
However, during his visit, Ruto confirmed that the KDF was no longer contesting the land’s ownership. He credited the resolution of the issue to the prayers of religious leaders, stating that their prayers had played a significant role in bringing about the change. “In your prayers, you raised the land contestation issue and asked for it to be resolved. Because you prayed for me to become the Commander-in-Chief, and God gave me that power, I instructed the Ministry of Lands to do its job,” Ruto said.
Ruto’s intervention in the land dispute was seen as a decisive moment, with the President asserting his authority as the Commander-in-Chief. He went on to declare that the church would be built on the land and promised to personally support the construction efforts. “Since I am the Commander-in-Chief, I told KDF that this land is a holy place, and the church will be built there. I will personally join hands with you to make it happen,” he added.
The Role of Jesus Winner Ministries in Kenya’s Spiritual Landscape
Jesus Winner Ministries has played a pivotal role in shaping Kenya’s spiritual landscape. Beyond its religious services, the church has been actively involved in various community development projects. These projects have helped improve the lives of many Kenyans, especially those in the marginalized communities of Nairobi and beyond. The church’s outreach programs include education, health services, and disaster relief efforts, all of which have made a significant impact on the lives of thousands.
Pastor Mwai, in particular, has been a strong advocate for social justice, frequently speaking out on issues affecting the poor and vulnerable. His leadership has inspired many to get involved in charitable work, with a focus on uplifting those who are suffering from poverty and inequality. Through his ministry, many individuals have found hope and purpose, and the church has become a center for positive change in the country.
President Ruto’s Religious Commitment and Political Implications
President William Ruto has always been open about his Christian faith, frequently citing his religious beliefs as a driving force behind his leadership style. His actions, such as the donation to Jesus Winner Ministries, reflect his belief in the power of prayer and the importance of supporting religious institutions. However, the political implications of his involvement with the church are complex.
On the one hand, Ruto’s support for the church can be seen as a genuine expression of his faith and commitment to helping religious organizations. On the other hand, it raises questions about the intersection of politics and religion in Kenya. Some critics argue that his donations and public displays of faith could be an attempt to solidify his political base among religious communities. Others see it as a genuine effort to support a church that has been an important part of Kenyan society.
Public Reactions and Future Expectations
The public reaction to Ruto’s donation to Jesus Winner Ministries has been mixed. While some Kenyans have praised the President for his generosity and support for the church, others have questioned the timing and motivations behind the donation. The controversy surrounding his previous ban on church donations by state officials has added to the skepticism surrounding his actions.
In the coming months, it will be interesting to see how this issue unfolds. Will Ruto continue to support religious organizations in this way, or will the political implications of such donations force him to reconsider his approach? Whatever the outcome, Jesus Winner Ministries remains a significant player in Kenya’s religious and social landscape, and President Ruto’s involvement with the church is likely to have long-lasting implications for both his presidency and the future of the church.
