President William Ruto hosted teachers at State House, Nairobi, on Saturday during the Waalimu na Rais Forum. The event was the first of its kind, bringing together educators and the Head of State for a lively and historic conversation.
A Humorous Opening
Ruto started by greeting the teachers in a playful manner.
“Ndugu walimu hamjambo, walimu hoiye, Bwana Yesu asifiwe… huyu naibiuu wangu mnamuona aje? Ni noma si noma, ni fire si fire,” he said, pointing to Deputy President Kithure Kindiki. The crowd burst into laughter.
Leadership Lessons with a Smile
The President then shared lighthearted lessons on leadership.
“Unajua ukitaka kufaulu, unatafuta deputy amesoma kuliko wewe. Saa hile wanakusaidia kushine, you take the credit, wao ndio wanafanya job,” Ruto joked.
Kindiki smiled as the audience laughed at the remark. Ruto also hinted at past experiences without naming names, saying: “Nlikua na mwingine alikua analalamika hajasoma… nikaona ataniangusha.”
A Personal Touch
To connect even more with teachers, Ruto spoke about his wife, Rachel Ruto.
He described her as his “former girlfriend, roommate, and now wife,” and reminded teachers that she is also one of them. She had asked him to send greetings and to recall a classic teaching phrase: “The lesson plan starts from the known… to the unknown.”
Teachers in the hall joined him in completing the line, creating a moment of joy and unity.
Recognizing Teachers’ Role
Beyond the humor, Ruto praised teachers for their dedication. He said they often sacrifice their comfort to guide Kenya’s children.
“Teachers have a lot of responsibility to educate our children, and have not had a chance to come to State House. Because of the respect you gave me by taking time off your work and finding a chance to visit me, I don’t take it for granted,” he said.
A Historic Forum
The Waalimu na Rais Forum was not only entertaining but also symbolic. It showed respect for teachers and highlighted their critical role in shaping the nation’s future.
