President William Ruto has urged Kenyans to adopt more children from the streets and children's homes.
He said the new laws on children have created mechanisms that allow more Kenyans to look after children in the streets and orphanages.
The President was speaking at the Eldoret State Lodge, Uasin Gishu County, when he hosted officials and children from 52 children's homes, ahead of the Christmas festivities.
"We have too many empty beds and empty seats at the table. Let's make these empty beds and seats useful by looking after these children," he said.
The President exuded confidence that under the new laws, the country would continuously look after the children in the streets and children's homes.
"We are a truly blessed nation with children. Many nations are looking for people to work, but they don't have enough because their young populations are very low."
First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto called on more Kenyans to help children from needy backgrounds.
Ruto also urged Kenyans to be patriotic and uphold the ideals of the country's forefathers.
He said Kenyans should maintain a positive perspective of their country irrespective of circumstances.
The Head of State added that challenges facing the nation were being addressed.
He expressed concern that Kenya was being appreciated by outsiders, but some Kenyans were disparaging their nation.
"Some people are blowing some issues about the country out of proportion instead of showing love for the nation," Ruto said.
He said that the United States-based travel agency Lonely Planet has recognised Nairobi as the best destination to visit in 2024.
Ruto added that it places Nairobi ahead of bigger and better-known cities like Paris, Montreal, and Philadelphia, among others.
The Head of State further noted that the World Bank has placed Kenya as the 29th fastest-growing economy in the world.
"In addition, the World Bank has also placed Kenya as the country with the third highest diaspora remittances in the world. As Kenyans, we have many reasons to love our country despite the challenges facing us. These challenges will soon be resolved," he said.
Ruto said Kenyans should put the interest of the country first to steer the nation in the right direction and inculcate patriotism in future generations.
He emphasised the need for Kenyans to defend and love their country, saying the stable state of the country has made the government declare the country a visa-free regime beginning next year.
Uasin Gishu County Governor Chelilim Bii thanked President Ruto for the yearly programme that helps children from children's homes in the county.
Present were MPs David Kiplagat (Soy), Phyllis Bartoo (Moiben), Abraham Kirwa (Mosop), Janet Rotich (Turbo) and Joseph Wainaina (nominated) among others.