The former Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua, has called on Kenyans to show kindness and solidarity during the festive season, reminding citizens not to let their neighbours go hungry.
In a video shared on his wife, Pastor Dorcas Rigathi’s, Instagram account on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, Gachagua urged Kenyans to be peaceful during the festive season and to celebrate with their family, neighbours, and friends
The second deputy president, in addition, added that times are hard and asked them not to let their neighbours go without food.
“Dear Kenyans, on this festive season, my family and I wish you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year 2026,” Gachagua said.
“During the festive season, I call on you all to be peaceful and celebrate with your family, neighbours and friends. We know times are hard; please do not let your neighbour go without food.”
Reflecting on this year, Gachagua acknowledged both the blessings and challenges that 2025 brought to the nation.
“The year 2025 has been eventful to our nation; there were many blessings to our family and many challenges as well. Despite the challenges, God has been gracious to our nation,” Gachagua said.
He also urged Kenyans travelling upcountry during the holidays to prioritise road safety.
“Those travelling upcountry, take care and be safe,” he added.
Ruto’s message
President William Ruto has taken the festive season to wish Kenyans a Merry Christmas and a blessed 2026, connecting with younger audiences in a playful, relatable way.
In a video shared on his official social media account on the eve of Christmas, Ruto reminded citizens about road safety, urging drivers to exercise caution during the holiday period.
“Wakenya 2025, we clocked it. I wish you a merry Christmas and a great and blessed 2026. Na kule barabarani, let’s drive carefully, avoid unnecessary losses,” Ruto’s festive message to Kenyans reads.
“Otherwise asanteni sana, mungu awabariki nawapenda jameni.”
Road safety
Ruto and Gachagua’s message highlights the growing concern over road safety, domestic accidents, and the need for collective prayer and vigilance during challenging times.
The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has urged Kenyans to prioritise road safety and responsible celebrations.
In a statement shared on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, the agency warns that roads become significantly more dangerous during the holidays, with a noticeable spike in accidents, many of which are preventable.
According to NACADA, road accidents surge during the festive season, with impaired driving often cited as the cause.
“The festive statistics are grim for a reason. Road accidents surge during celebrations, and impaired driving is often the cause. This isn’t just about you behind the wheel. It’s about every family on the road. Celebrate the season. Protect lives. Drive sober,” the NACADA statement reads.
“Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs isn’t a “mistake” it’s a choice that gambles with lives. It impairs judgment, slows reaction time, and turns a vehicle into a weapon.This choice doesn’t just affect the driver; it risks passengers, other motorists, and pedestrians, entire families dreaming of their own celebrations.”
