Few stories capture the power of determination and perseverance like that of President William Ruto. Before rising to the highest office in the land, he lived a simple life, struggling like many ordinary Kenyans. One detail from his past that continues to inspire many is the modest rent he once paid while trying to build his future.
Born on December 21, 1966, in Kamagut, Uasin Gishu County, William Samoei Ruto is the son of Daniel Cheruiyot and Sarah Cheruiyot. He began his education at Kerotet Primary School before proceeding to Wareng Secondary School for his O-Level studies and later joining Kapsabet Boys High School in Nandi County for his A-Levels.
After completing high school, Ruto spent some time serving as a Christian evangelist before joining the University of Nairobi, where he pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Botany and Zoology, graduating in 1990. During his university years, he was actively involved in student leadership and served as the chairman of the Christian Union. Years later, he furthered his education by earning a Master of Science degree in Environmental Science in 2011.
Ruto’s political career began in the 1990s, and in 1997 he was elected as the Member of Parliament for Eldoret North Constituency. Over the years, he held several senior government positions before making history in 2013 when he became Kenya’s first Deputy President under the 2010 Constitution. He served in that role for two terms before being elected as Kenya’s fifth President in 2022.
Despite his rise to power, Ruto has often spoken about his humble beginnings, reminding Kenyans that success is built through hard work and persistence. One of the stories he frequently shares is about the period he lived in Nairobi’s Dagoretti South Constituency, specifically in the Ngando area.
According to the President, he rented a modest house where he paid only KSh 1,750 per month. Though the amount may seem small today, it represented a significant expense for a young man striving to establish himself. The simple rental house became an important chapter in his life and remains one of his most treasured memories.
Ruto has also revealed that it was while living in that humble home that he courted Rachel Ruto, the woman who would later become Kenya’s First Lady. Their relationship blossomed during those years, and after getting married, they started building their family together. The President has shared that their first child was born while they were still living in the Kawangware home, making the house a place filled with cherished memories.
Whenever he reflects on his journey, Ruto uses the story of the KSh 1,750 house to encourage young people never to lose hope because of their current circumstances. He believes that where a person starts does not determine where they will end up.
Today, President William Ruto lives at State House, Nairobi, after decades of public service and political leadership. Yet he continues to remind Kenyans of the days when he lived in a modest rented house, proving that every great journey begins with small steps.
From paying KSh 1,750 in monthly rent in Ngando to leading the nation as President, William Ruto’s life story remains one of Kenya’s most remarkable examples of resilience, ambition, and determination. His journey continues to inspire millions who believe that with hard work, faith, and persistence, even the humblest beginnings can lead to extraordinary achievements.
