William Ruto is the President of the republic of Kenya, located in East Africa. He assumed office in September 2022, after he served as the Deputy President of President Uhuru Kenyatta.
In just about 1 year 9 months into President Ruto’s administration, Kenya has been faced with a mix of the good, bad and ugly. The latest being the protest which erupted on the FinanceBill and has since gone violent.
President William Ruto however in his speech said protesters will be treated as treacious criminals as the protest seems to be on the verge of plunging Kenya into Anarchy.
Going further in this article, let’s however focus on President William Ruto, his background, career, family and all that can be gathered about him.
Early Life and Background of President William Ruto
William Samoei Ruto was born on the 21st of December, 1966 in Sambut village, Kamagut, Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. He is the current President of Kenya, after he took over from his boss, President UhuruKenyatta.
He grew up in a humble, religious family, with his parents Daniel and Sarah Cheruiyot.
Ruto’s early education began at Kerotet Primary School, after which he proceeded to Wareng Secondary School, and then Kapsabet High School. He later attended the University of Nairobi, where he bagged a Bachelor of Science degree in botany and zoology in 1990.
He continued his education at the same institution by pursuing a Master of Science in 2011 and a Ph.D. in plant ecology in 2018.
Career and Business
As part of his early life challenges, President Ruto recalled selling peanuts and chickens by the roadside to make ends meet. Despite these challenges, he managed to build a successful career in business, with investments in real estate, agriculture, hospitality, and insurance.
Political Career and Achievements
President William Ruto’s political journey kickstarted when he helped found the Youth for KANU 1992 (YK’92) group in 1992. He supported the presidential campaign of Daniel arap Moi and was first elected to Parliament in 1997, representing Eldoret North Constituency.
Since then, Ruto has held several ministerial positions, some of which Includes;
– Minister for Home Affairs(2002)
– Minister for Agriculture (2008-2010)
– Minister for Higher Education (2010)
In 2013, Ruto became Kenya’s first elected Deputy President under President Uhuru Kenyatta.
He was re-elected in 2017 and In 2022, he successfully ran for the presidency, becoming the 5th President of Kenya.
William Ruto’s Wife, Children and Family
William Ruto is married to Rachel Chebet. The duo got married in 1991, and they have six children together. He also has a daughter with Prisca Chemutai Bett. His children are well-educated and hold various professional roles. Some of them includes;
– Nick Ruto: A lawyer
– June Ruto: A diplomat
– Charlene Ruto: Works in PR and branding
– Stephanie Ruto: A law graduate
Ruto’s personal life reflects his humble beginnings and strong family values. He also often speaks about his early struggles and how they shaped his resilience and determination.
