President Ruto's mother Mama Sarah makes rare public appearance during Mashujaa Day

President William Ruto’s mother, Mama Sarah, made a rare public appearance at this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations in Eldoret, drawing attention as she joined dignitaries at the national event held at Kipchoge Keino Stadium.

Dressed in a gold and green outfit with a matching wide-brimmed hat, Mama Sarah was seen mingling with guests at the fully packed stadium, with photographs of her appearance circulating on social media.

Her appearance was notable as it was her first major public outing since September 13, 2022, when she attended Ruto’s inauguration as Kenya’s fifth president at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed was the chief guest at the celebrations, highlighting the close diplomatic and economic ties between Kenya and Ethiopia.

President Ruto led the commemorations alongside First Lady Rachel Ruto. They were joined by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Cabinet secretaries, governors, Members of Parliament, diplomats and other senior government officials.

This year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations marked a first, with Uasin Gishu, Nandi and Elgeyo-Marakwet counties jointly hosting the national event.

While Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret hosted the main parade and national speeches, other activities were spread across the three counties, extending the celebrations to communities across the North Rift region.

Mashujaa Day is observed annually on October 20 to honour the men and women who fought for Kenya’s independence, as well as individuals whose contributions continue to shape the country’s social and economic development.