Early Life and Education:
William Kipchirchir Samoei Arap Ruto was born on December 21, 1966, in Kamagut, Kenya, to Daniel Cheruiyot and Sarah Cheruiyot. He was 58 years old by the time of publication of this article in 2024. He is a member of the Kalenjin ethnic group. Ruto attended Kamagut Primary School and later moved to Kerotet Primary School for his Certificate of Primary Education (CPE). He continued his education at Wareng Secondary School and Kapsabet High School for his Ordinary Level and Advanced Level studies respectively. Ruto then pursued higher education at the University of Nairobi, earning a BSc in Botany and Zoology, an MSc in Plant Ecology, and eventually a Ph.D. in 2018.
Political Career:
Ruto’s political journey began in the early 1990s when he joined the YK’92 campaign group advocating for the re-election of President Daniel arap Moi. He later ventured into politics and was elected as Member of Parliament for Eldoret North constituency in 1997. Ruto served in various ministerial positions under different administrations, including Minister for Home Affairs, Minister of Agriculture, and Minister for Higher Education.
He became deeply involved in party politics and was a significant figure in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) during Kenya’s political transitions. Ruto contested the presidency in 2007 but later supported Raila Odinga’s candidature. In subsequent elections, he formed alliances and coalitions, ultimately becoming the Deputy President of Kenya in 2013 under President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Presidential Campaign and Presidency:
Ruto ran for the presidency in 2022 under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party and won the election, assuming office on September 13, 2022. His victory was disputed by his opponent, Raila Odinga, who challenged the results in the Supreme Court but was unsuccessful. President Ruto pledged to address climate change and emphasized the need for sustainable development during his term.
Controversies:
Ruto’s political career has been marked by several controversies, including allegations of involvement in land grabbing scandals and facing charges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) over his role in Kenya’s 2007-2008 post-election violence. He has faced scrutiny over the acquisition of properties and land, with accusations of corruption and irregular practices.
Personal Life:
President Ruto is married to Rachel Chebet, and they have seven children together. He is a devout Christian and an active member of the Africa Inland Church. Ruto is also known for his entrepreneurial ventures, including a successful chicken farm in Sugoi.
Throughout his career, President William Ruto has been a prominent figure in Kenyan politics, holding key positions and playing a pivotal role in shaping the country’s political landscape.
President Ruto’s net worth:
William Ruto, the President, is known for his significant chicken farm in Sugoi, inspired by his earlier days as a chicken seller along the Nairobi-Eldoret-Malaba highway. He and his wife have also constructed a chapel on their residence in Nairobi’s Karen suburb. His estimated net worth stands at $480 million.
President William Ruto: Unveiling the Source of His Wealth.
As the Deputy President William Ruto of Kenya he had often been the subject of speculation regarding the source of his wealth, especially considering his modest upbringing. In a detailed post from 2011, Ruto candidly addressed questions surrounding his financial status and the origins of his assets, shedding light on his journey from humble beginnings to acquiring significant properties and investments.
Ruto’s account paints a picture of determination and resourcefulness. He recounted how, in his youth, he sold chickens near a railway crossing, earning as little as Ksh11 per bird. Despite these humble beginnings, Ruto demonstrated a strong work ethic and a proactive approach to improving his family’s circumstances. He used his earnings to support his family, paying for his siblings’ education and building a house for his father.
One of the most notable aspects of Ruto’s financial history is his early involvement in real estate. He revealed that he started paying mortgages as far back as 1996, suggesting a long-term commitment to property ownership and investment. Ruto emphasized that his financial records, including mortgage payments and property acquisitions, are readily available for scrutiny by financial institutions and banks.
Furthermore, Ruto disclosed that he strategically invested in shares of various companies, some of which he personally helped establish. This approach highlights his entrepreneurial spirit and foresight in diversifying his investments beyond traditional real estate holdings.
Addressing skepticism surrounding his wealth, Ruto challenged the notion that one’s financial status is predetermined solely by parental circumstances. He noted the fallacy of equating poverty with familial background, highlighting that hard work and determination can lead to significant achievements regardless of one’s upbringing.
In his post, Ruto also referenced his involvement in previous presidential campaigns, showcasing his experience in fundraising and political strategy. He highlighted his pivotal role in securing financing for the 2007 campaign, underscoring his capabilities in mobilizing resources and support.
Ultimately, Ruto’s narrative underscores a personal journey marked by resilience and ambition. His rise from selling chickens at a railway crossing to owning multi-million-shilling properties like the prestigious Weston Hotel illustrates a trajectory fueled by determination and strategic financial planning.
As Ruto sets his sights on the highest office in Kenya, he presented himself as a champion for the “hustlers” – those striving for socioeconomic advancement through hard work and opportunity. His story resonates with many Kenyans, offering a compelling narrative of success against the odds and a vision for empowering ordinary citizens.
In a political landscape often clouded by speculation and controversy, Ruto’s openness about his financial journey provides valuable insight into his character and aspirations. It remains to be seen how his narrative will shape public perception as he continues his political journey in Kenya.
