William Ruto Biography – When we talk about influential African leaders, William Ruto is a name that cannot be ignored. From humble beginnings to becoming the 5th President of Kenya, Ruto’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and determination. He has held many significant positions, including the country’s first elected Deputy President from 2013 to 2022. Ruto’s rise in the political scene is nothing short of remarkable, and he has captivated many with his unwavering commitment to public service.
In this in-depth biography, we will explore the various aspects of William Ruto’s life, including his second wife, tribe, age, net worth, children, and education. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious, this article will walk you through the life of Kenya’s top leader.
Early Life and Background
William Kipchirchir Samoei Arap Ruto was born on 21 December 1966 in Sambut village, Kamagut, Uasin Gishu County, to humble parents Daniel Cheruiyot and Sarah Cheruiyot. From an early age, Ruto exhibited traits of leadership and ambition. His journey started in Uasin Gishu, located in Kenya’s Rift Valley Province, a region primarily inhabited by the Kalenjin people, the tribe to which Ruto belongs.
William Ruto’s Educational Background
One might say that William Ruto’s education laid the foundation for his political career. He began his academic journey at Kamagut Primary School, where his brilliance shone early. He later moved to Kerotet Primary School, where he completed his Certificate of Primary Education (CPE).
From there, he attended Wareng Secondary School and later Kapsabet High School, where he obtained both his Ordinary Level and Advanced Level education. Ruto’s thirst for knowledge led him to pursue a degree at the University of Nairobi, where he studied Botany and Zoology, graduating with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in 1990. His academic achievements didn’t stop there; Ruto went on to earn a Master of Science (MSc) in Plant Ecology and, after overcoming several challenges, he was awarded a PhD from the same university in 2018.
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William Ruto’s Family Life: Wife and Children
Behind every great man is a great woman, and for William Ruto, that woman is Rachel Chebet, whom he married in 1991. Together, they have six children, and Rachel has been a steadfast partner throughout his political career.
However, Ruto’s personal life has also been a subject of public interest due to his relationship with Prisca Chemutai Bett, with whom he shares a daughter. Although Rachel Chebet is his official wife, Prisca is considered his second wife in traditional terms, adding another layer of complexity to his personal narrative.
William Ruto Tribe: The Kalenjin People
Ruto belongs to the Kalenjin tribe, one of the major ethnic groups in Kenya. The Kalenjin people are primarily found in Kenya’s Rift Valley Province and have a long history of producing political and athletic figures. This tribal affiliation has played a significant role in shaping Ruto’s political journey, as the Kalenjin community has consistently rallied behind him.
Interestingly, while William Ruto’s tribe is well-known, the tribe of his wife, Rachel, has been kept private. This has sparked speculation, but it seems that the Ruto family prefers to keep certain aspects of their personal lives out of the spotlight.
Political Career: A Meteoric Rise
William Ruto’s political career has spanned more than two decades. He entered the political arena in 1997 when he was elected as the Member of Parliament for Eldoret North. His early political affiliations were with KANU, the ruling party at the time. In 2002, he was appointed as the Minister for Home Affairs under President Daniel Arap Moi.
Key Political Positions Held by William Ruto
- 1997-2007: Member of Parliament for Eldoret North
- 2002: Minister for Home Affairs
- 2008-2010: Minister for Agriculture
- 2010: Minister for Higher Education
- 2013-2022: Deputy President of Kenya
- 2022-Present: President of Kenya
Controversies and Achievements
No political career is without its controversies, and Ruto has had his fair share. His involvement in the 2007 post-election violence remains a dark chapter in his political life. However, through his resilience, Ruto has also been recognized for his contribution to Kenya’s agricultural sector during his tenure as Minister of Agriculture.
William Ruto’s Presidential Journey
In the 2013 general election, Ruto teamed up with Uhuru Kenyatta under the Jubilee Party, with Ruto serving as Deputy President. The duo won the election and were re-elected in 2017. However, their partnership took a turn, and by the time of the 2022 general elections, Ruto and Kenyatta were on opposing sides. Ruto ran under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and won the presidency despite Uhuru Kenyatta’s endorsement of Raila Odinga.
William Ruto Net Worth
As of 2024, William Ruto’s net worth is estimated to be around Sh15.93 billion. Much of his wealth comes from his vast business interests, which range from agriculture to real estate. His significant financial standing has made him one of the wealthiest politicians in Kenya.
William Ruto’s Legacy and Influence
Whether you agree with his politics or not, William Ruto’s legacy as a political heavyweight is undeniable. His influence extends beyond Kenya’s borders, with many African leaders respecting his strategic acumen and leadership style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, William Ruto’s biography is a reflection of resilience, political savvy, and strategic partnerships. From his humble beginnings to becoming one of the most influential leaders in Africa, Ruto’s life continues to inspire many. As the current President of Kenya, his story is still unfolding, and his leadership will shape the future of the country.
FAQs
- Who is William Ruto’s second wife?
William Ruto’s second wife, in traditional terms, is Prisca Chemutai Bett, with whom he shares a daughter. - What tribe does William Ruto belong to?
Ruto belongs to the Kalenjin tribe, primarily from the Rift Valley Province in Kenya. - What is William Ruto’s net worth in 2024?
As of 2024, William Ruto’s net worth is approximately Sh15.93 billion. - How many children does William Ruto have?
William Ruto has six children with his wife, Rachel Chebet, and one daughter with Prisca Chemutai Bett. - What is William Ruto’s educational background?
Ruto has a Bachelor’s degree in Botany and Zoology and a PhD in Plant Ecology from the University of Nairobi.