President William Ruto is not just Kenya’s fifth leader; he is also a loving father to eight children.
The first family comprises six biological children with First Lady Rachel Ruto, and two adopted daughters.
Let us take a peek into the lives of President Ruto’s children, who are all making their own marks in the world.
1. Nick Ruto
Nick Ruto, 37, is President Ruto’s firstborn son. A lawyer by profession, Nick was admitted to the bar in 2019. Despite preferring a private life, he sometimes accompanies his father to political events.
In 2022, Nick married Evelyn Chemutai in a grand traditional ceremony. And the couple welcomed their first child shortly after.
2. June Ruto
June Ruto is the stylish firstborn daughter of President Ruto. She is a diplomat representing Kenya in Poland. She mostly maintains a low profile. But her wedding in May 2021 to Nigerian Alexander Ezenagu drew public attention.
3. Charlene Ruto
Charlene Ruto is the third-born child and perhaps the most outspoken of the siblings. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Communications from Daystar University. And a Master’s in Hospitality and Business from Les Roches in Switzerland.
And she is the founder and patron of the SMACHS Foundation- an agricultural non-profit Organization.
Charlene works as the Director of PR and Branding at Weston Hotel, owned by her father. She was once rumored to be in a relationship with gospel artist Daddy Owen, after a public introduction ceremony to his mom but the singer rubbished those claims. Televangelist Benny Hinn prayed for her to get a husband during his Kenyan crusade. But it is still unclear whether those prayers were answered with a Yes.
4. Stephanie Ruto
Stephanie Ruto, the fourth-born, graduated from Strathmore University with a degree in law in 2019. She leads a private life but has been seen enjoying herself with friends on occasion.
5. George Ruto
George Kimutai Ruto is the youngest son and a pilot by profession. He studied at Mang’u High School and later pursued a degree in computer science at Strathmore University. In 2021, George traveled to the UK to further his aviation studies. Known for his casual style, he occasionally draws attention when appearing with his father at public events.
6. Cullie Ruto
Cullie Ruto, President Ruto’s sixth child, is admired for her fashion sense. Although not much is known about her, she gained recognition during the family’s recent US trip. Cullie enjoys a low-key lifestyle away from the public eye.
7. Abby Cherop
Abby Cherop, a high school student, came into the limelight in 2017 when her mother, Prisca Chemutai Bett, sought child support from Ruto. He acknowledged Abby as his daughter and has since supported her.
In 2019, Abby scored 406 marks in her KCPE. And she attended Alliance Girls High School where she passed her national exams in 2023.
8. Nadia Cherono
Nadia Cherono is the youngest member of President William Ruto’s family. He adopted her after she was abandoned and found buried as a newborn, with her body partly decomposed. Her situation deeply touched Ruto when he learned about it.
“Her story touched me,” President Ruto said.
“I named her Cherono, after my mother, and made her part of my family.”
By Vivian K.