President William Ruto has been named among the world's 100 most influential people of 2024 by Time Magazine.
Other Kenyans on the list include Equity Group CEO James Mwangi, World 1500m champion Faith Kipyegon, Environmentalist Wanjira Mathai, and Historian Chao Maina.
They were listed alongside founder and chief executive officer of Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO) based in Kibera slums.
Odede was recognised as a person with the ability to make a change in Africa and lead themselves and their communities out of poverty.
Ruto emerged as a key voice of Africa’s climate ambitions and recognised for hosting climate summit in Nairobi last September, which drew leaders from around the globe.
The event concluded with a unanimous agreement from African countries to rapidly expand renewable energy over the next decade, aided by $23 billion (Sh3 trillion) in pledges to catalyse the continent’s climate goals.
The Time Magazine mentioned Ruto's call for lenders to relieve the debt burden faced by some African countries, thus opening the door for spending on climate solutions as one that has made waves.
"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," Time noted.
"To continue to make progress abroad, Ruto will need to manage challenges at home too," Time said in statement.
In January 2024, the President was named one of the most influential Africans in 2023 by the New African magazine.
According to the magazine, Ruto changed the position of Africa in the climate change debate.
"In one swoop he changed the position of Africa from that of a back seat passenger in the climate crisis discussion to being a lead navigator - an outstanding achievement for the continent."
President Ruto has been a key champion of climate change for Africa and has been proactive in calling for equity in climate change financing.
