President William Ruto dancing during the Nyota programme launch in Nyeri County on January 12,2025. /SCREENGRAB
President William Ruto on Monday stole the show in Nyeri County after breaking into a dance during the launch of the Nyota programme.
In a clip seen by The Star, Nyeri came alive as the event got underway — but it was not just the programme rollout that had the crowd buzzing.
In a moment that blended leadership with levity, Ruto stepped onto the red-carpeted stage and joined a group of energetic dancers, much to the delight of onlookers.
Dressed in a printed brown shirt and white trousers, the President moved in rhythm to the popular Kikuyu tune Ni Gukena, his feet tapping in sync with the beat.
The crowd erupted in cheers as he matched the dancers’ energy, flashing a broad smile and showing off his lighter side.
Photographers scrambled to capture the moment as the audience — including uniformed officials and local residents — applauded the President’s spontaneity.
He was accompanied by his deputy, Kithure Kindiki, who repeatedly chanted, “Fire si fire, Ruto ni fire si fire,” further energising the crowd.
The performance added a celebratory touch to the launch, reminding Kenyans that leadership can be both serious and joyful. As the music played on, Ruto’s dance moves became the highlight of the event, sparking conversations online and offline.
For many, it was a refreshing glimpse of a leader connecting with culture, community and celebration.
The NYOTA grant is part of the government’s broader strategy to tackle youth unemployment by supporting enterprise development and self-employment among vulnerable young people across the country.
Implemented with support from the World Bank, the grant provides eligible youths with seed capital of up to Sh50,000, alongside training in entrepreneurship, financial literacy and life skills.
The initiative targets vulnerable and low-income youth, helping them transition into self-employment and improve their livelihoods.
Beyond funding, the programme is designed to equip beneficiaries with practical skills and mentorship to enhance sustainability, reduce youth unemployment and stimulate grassroots economic activity across the country.