William Ruto: Who He Is and What He’s Doing for Kenya

If you’ve heard the name William Ruto in the news, you probably wonder what his role is and why he matters. Ruto is Kenya’s current president, a former deputy president, and a polarising figure in African politics. In this guide we break down his background, his main policies, the controversies that follow him, and what the next few months could look like.

From Humble Roots to the Presidency

William Samoei Ruto grew up in a farming family in the Rift Valley. He entered politics in the 1990s, first as a member of parliament and later as deputy president under Uhuru Kenyatta. In 2022 he won the presidential election, promising a “bottom‑up” economic model that puts small farmers and traders at the centre of growth.

His story is often used to illustrate Kenya’s social mobility – a kid from a modest background rising to the country’s top job. That narrative fuels his support among many rural voters who see him as a champion of their interests.

Key Policies Shaping Kenya’s Future

Ruto’s agenda can be summed up in three pillars: food security, youth empowerment, and infrastructure.

• Food security: He launched the “Big Deal” program to give cash and fertilizer subsidies to smallholder farmers. The goal is to boost maize, wheat and sorghum yields and cut imports.
• Youth empowerment: The “Youth Initiative” promises free vocational training and micro‑loans for young entrepreneurs, aiming to tackle Kenya’s high unemployment rate.
• Infrastructure: Ruto backs the revival of the Lamu Port‑South Sudan‑Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) corridor, which would create jobs and improve regional trade.

Critics say the programs are under‑funded and lack transparency, but supporters argue they’re a step toward inclusive growth.

Controversies and Legal Battles

Ruto’s political journey isn’t without drama. He’s faced accusations of corruption, especially surrounding the 2017 election. The International Criminal Court (ICC) once charged him with crimes against humanity for alleged post‑election violence, though the case was later dropped.

Domestically, opposition leaders accuse him of silencing dissent and using state resources for political gain. These claims have sparked protests in Nairobi and the Rift Valley, sometimes turning violent.

Understanding these tensions helps explain why Ruto’s approval ratings swing dramatically – high when his initiatives deliver visible benefits, and low when scandals surface.

What’s Coming Up?

Looking ahead, Ruto’s government is gearing up for the 2027 general election. Early signs show he’s consolidating support among regional leaders and key business groups. At the same time, Kenya’s economy faces challenges: rising debt, inflation, and drought‑related crop failures.

How he balances economic pressures with his “bottom‑up” promises will shape Kenya’s political landscape for years. Keep an eye on the upcoming budget release and the rollout of the agricultural subsidy scheme – both are litmus tests for his credibility.

Whether you’re a Kenyan citizen, an investor, or just someone interested in African politics, knowing the basics of William Ruto’s policies and the controversies around him gives you a clearer picture of Kenya’s direction.

Stay tuned to Chicken Shack News for the latest updates on William Ruto, Kenyan elections, and regional developments.