William Ruto Biography – William Kipchirchir Samoei Arap Ruto, born on December 21, 1966, is a prominent Kenyan politician and the current President of Kenya. His journey from humble beginnings in Uasin Gishu County to the highest office in the country is a testament to his determination and resilience.
This biography looks into his early life, education, political career, personal life, and net worth.
William Ruto Biography
Early Life and Education
William Ruto was born in Sambut village, Kamagut, Uasin Gishu County, to Daniel and Sarah Cheruiyot. He belongs to the Kalenjin tribe, a prominent ethnic group in Kenya’s Rift Valley Province. Ruto’s educational journey began at Kamagut Primary School, followed by Kerotet Primary School, where he sat for his Certificate of Primary Education (CPE).
He then attended Wareng Secondary School in Uasin Gishu County before transferring to Kapsabet High School in Nandi County for his Ordinary Level and Advanced Level education. Ruto pursued higher education at the University of Nairobi, earning a BSc in Botany and Zoology in 1990. He furthered his studies with an MSc in Plant Ecology and eventually completed a Ph.D. in 2018, despite facing several setbacks.
Political Career
Ruto’s political career began in the early 1990s when he was introduced to politics by President Daniel arap Moi during the 1992 general elections. He was elected as the Member of Parliament for Eldoret North constituency in 1997 under the KANU party and served until 2007.
Ministerial Positions
- Minister for Home Affairs (2002): Ruto briefly held this position in the Daniel arap Moi administration.
- Minister for Agriculture (2008-2010): Under President Mwai Kibaki, Ruto oversaw significant agricultural reforms.
- Minister for Higher Education (2010): He held this position for a brief period, focusing on improving higher education standards in Kenya.
Deputy President
Ruto served as Kenya’s first elected Deputy President from 2013 to 2022 under President Uhuru Kenyatta. He was instrumental in the Jubilee Party’s formation and played a key role in the 2017 re-election campaign.
Presidency
In 2022, Ruto ran for the presidency under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and won. Despite a fallout with Kenyatta, who supported his opponent Raila Odinga, Ruto emerged victorious amidst allegations of electoral fraud from Odinga’s allies, which international observers did not corroborate.
William Ruto Wives – Personal Life
William Ruto married Rachel Chebet in 1991, and the couple has six children. Ruto also has a daughter with Prisca Chemutai Bett, considered his second wife. Ruto’s wife belongs to an undisclosed tribe.
Social Media
- Twitter: William Ruto
- Instagram: William Ruto
William Ruto Net Worth
As of 2024, William Ruto’s net worth is estimated to be Sh15.93 billion. His wealth comes from various investments and his political career.
FAQs
Who is William Ruto?
William Ruto is the fifth and current President of Kenya, serving since September 13, 2022. He was previously the Deputy President and has held multiple ministerial positions.
What is William Ruto’s tribe?
William Ruto belongs to the Kalenjin tribe.
Who is William Ruto’s second wife?
William Ruto’s second wife is Prisca Chemutai Bett, with whom he has a daughter.
How many children does William Ruto have?
William Ruto has seven children: six with his wife Rachel Chebet and one with Prisca Chemutai Bett.
What is William Ruto’s net worth?
As of 2024, William Ruto’s net worth is estimated to be Sh15.93 billion.
Conclusion
William Ruto’s biography highlights his remarkable journey from a modest background to the presidency. His story is one of resilience, determination, and strategic political maneuvering. With a strong educational foundation and an extensive political career, Ruto continues to shape Kenya’s future as its leader.
