09/08/2026
FROM AN ABANDONED NEWBORN TO A BELOVED DAUGHTER — WHAT A JOURNEY.
Meet Nadia Cherono Ruto, President William Ruto’s adopted daughter.
Nadia’s story is one of resilience, compassion, and the extraordinary turns that life can take. Abandoned as a newborn, she was rescued and taken to Madre Ippolata Children’s Home in Machakos, which was run by Catholic nuns.
In 2015, then-Deputy President William Ruto visited the children’s home. Upon learning about Nadia’s difficult beginnings, he was deeply moved. He made the decision to adopt her and welcome her into his family—not merely as a child in need of a home, but as a daughter deserving of love, dignity, and opportunity.
He gave her the name Cherono, in honour of his mother, Mama Sarah Cherono Cheruiyot.
Since then, Nadia has grown up as part of the Ruto family and has occasionally been seen alongside President Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto at public events.
Life has a funny way of rewriting stories we thought were already finished. Nadia’s journey reminds us that where a story begins does not necessarily determine where it ends.
From being abandoned as a newborn to growing up surrounded by family and love—that is more than a change of circumstance; it is a powerful reminder that compassion can change the trajectory of a life.
And now, look at her… all grown up!
Sometimes, life doesn’t follow the script. It edits the script, adds a few unexpected chapters, and somehow makes the ending beautiful.