Explore the humble life of Mzee Cherutich Kimosop, father of President Ruto, and his legacy in Baringo and Kenyan history.
For decades, speculation has surrounded the paternal roots of President William Ruto, especially regarding his late father’s life and identity. Now, the story of Mzee Cherutich Kimosop—a humble, resilient figure—sheds light on the personal history behind Kenya’s fifth head of state.
🌄 Early Life in Tenges, Baringo
Born in 1934 in Kipsolian village, Tenges, Mzee Cherutich was the youngest of three brothers. His father, Mzee Kipchumber, was of Nandi descent, placing Cherutich’s roots firmly in the Rift Valley.
He began schooling at Kabartonjo Mission School, where he reportedly crossed paths with a young Daniel arap Moi—long before Moi rose to become Kenya’s second president. Unfortunately, poverty cut short his education in Standard Four.
🏛️ Working Under British Colonial Rule
In the 1950s, Cherutich worked as a secretary and tax collector under the British colonial administration. His duties required him to cross the Perkerra River regularly—a risky task that nearly cost him his life during a near-drowning incident.
Following that experience, he resigned from government work and returned to Nandi, seeking a simpler, safer life.
💍 Marriage and Family Life
Back in Nandi, Cherutich married Sarah Cheruiyot. The couple had several children, including William Kipchirchir Ruto, born in 1966.
Their story is one of struggle and sacrifice. From this modest union would emerge a future president—proof of Kenya’s deep potential for social mobility and transformation.
🚜 A Farmer’s Life in Baringo
Later in life, Mzee Cherutich moved to Kesetan, Baringo Central, married Sote Cherutich, and started a second family. There, he embraced small-scale farming, living a quiet life rooted in land and community.
Local elders remember him as a man of peace who longed to reunite his Nandi and Baringo families. Sadly, old age and limited resources prevented him from achieving that dream before his death in 2009.
🕊️ Legacy and President Ruto’s Ancestral Connection
Though President Ruto has acknowledged his father’s background publicly, residents of Torotwo Village—where Cherutich is buried—say the President has yet to visit the site personally.
His widow, Sote Cherutich, along with village elders, have expressed hope that the President will one day return home to pay tribute.
“We welcome our son, the President, to come home and honour the memory of his father,” one elder told BWAfrica.com.
📌 Quick Facts About Mzee Cherutich Kimosop
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Year | 1934 |
| Origin | Kipsolian, Tenges (Nandi heritage) |
| Primary Residence | Kesetan, Baringo Central |
| Notable Children | President William Ruto |
| Death | 2009 |
| Occupations | Tax collector, smallholder farmer |
| Spouses | Sarah Cheruiyot, Sote Cherutich |
🔗 Related Articles
- President William Ruto’s Rise from Sugoi to State House
- How Daniel arap Moi’s Early Years Shaped Kenya’s Politics
- Exploring Kenya’s Colonial History Through Rural Lives
- Baringo County: Development Challenges & Outlook 2025
✅ Conclusion
The life of Mzee Cherutich Kimosop offers a rich backstory to President Ruto’s personal journey. From colonial-era hardship to rural farming and family division, his story reflects the resilience of Kenya’s rural families.
Whether or not the President visits Torotwo, the legacy of Mzee Cherutich lives on—as a symbol of humility, hard work, and national identity.