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William Samoei Ruto

William Samoei Ruto

President of Kenya

Appears in 2 stories

Born: December 21, 1966 (age 59 years), Kamagut
Previous offices: Acting President of Kenya (2014–2014), Deputy President of Kenya (2013–2022), and Minister of Education of Kenya (2010–2011)
Children: June Ruto, George Kimutai Ruto, Nadia Cherono, and more
Spouse: Rachel Ruto (m. 1991)
Education: University of Nairobi (2012–2018), University of Nairobi (1987–1990), and Kapsabet High School

Notable Quotes

Having reflected on the continuing conversation around the content of the Finance Bill 2024, and listening keenly to the people of Kenya, who have said loudly that they want nothing to do with this Finance Bill 2024, I concede.

Ruto credited U.S. assistance with saving millions of lives and pledged Kenya would use the new funds 'transparently and accountably.'([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/us-signs-pact-with-kenya-under-america-first-global-health-plan-2025-12-04/?utm_source=openai))

Stories

Kenya's fuel price regulation

Rule Changes

In office since September 2022

Kenya imports every drop of refined fuel it consumes. On the 15th of each month, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority sets maximum pump prices based on landed import costs and exchange rates—a system designed to prevent price gouging while ensuring suppliers can recover costs. In February 2026, that formula delivered a 2.3% cut in petrol prices, dropping a liter in Nairobi to 178.28 shillings (about $1.38).

Updated Feb 15

America first global health compacts: rewiring U.S. health aid

Rule Changes

First head of state to sign an America First health compact

In 2025 the United States began dismantling its post-Cold War global health architecture: withdrawing from the World Health Organization, freezing most foreign aid, and abolishing USAID’s development role. On this foundation, the Trump administration unveiled an 'America First Global Health Strategy' that replaces large multilateral and NGO-run programs with tightly negotiated bilateral health compacts requiring partner governments to co-finance HIV, TB, malaria and outbreak response programs and gradually assume full responsibility. Kenya signed the first such deal on December 4, 2025, followed by Rwanda on December 5–6 with a $228 million compact; by early 2026, 15 nations had signed agreements committing over $16 billion, with the U.S. covering 100% of commodity costs in FY2026 before tapering support.

Updated Feb 5