Nadia Cherono Ruto: From Abandoned Newborn to Kenya’s First Family

Nadia Cherono Ruto life is a powerful testament to survival, love, and second chances. Found buried alive as a newborn, her tragic beginning took a miraculous turn when she was rescued, rehabilitated, and later adopted by Kenya’s President, William Ruto. Today, she is a cherished member of the Ruto family, symbolizing hope and transformation.

This article explores Nadia’s early life, rescue, adoption, and her new life in the spotlight as part of Kenya’s First Family.


Early Life & Tragic Beginnings

Nadia Cherono Ruto was born in February 2015 in Machakos County, Kenya. Shortly after birth, she was abandoned and buried alive, left to die. Miraculously, she was discovered with parts of her body already decomposing but still alive.

She was rescued and taken to Madre Ippolita Children’s Home, a Catholic-run orphanage in Machakos, where she received medical care and nurturing.


Adoption by President William Ruto

In September 2015, then-Deputy President William Ruto visited the children’s home for a fundraising event. Upon hearing Nadia’s heartbreaking story, he was deeply moved and immediately decided to adopt her.

He named her Nadia Cherono, after his late mother, and officially made her part of his family.

“The story of Nadia Cherono Ruto, who was found buried with her body partly decomposing and abandoned as a newborn, touched my heart. I’ve named her Cherono after my mother and made her part of my family.” – President William Ruto.


Life in the Ruto Family

Since her adoption, Nadia has grown up alongside President Ruto’s six biological children:

  • Nick Ruto (lawyer)
  • June Ruto (diplomat)
  • Charlene Ruto (social activist)
  • Stephanie Ruto (law graduate)
  • George Ruto (pilot)
  • Abby Cherop (student).

She has been seen in public with the family, including:

  • Matching outfits with First Lady Rachel Ruto during President Ruto’s 2022 inauguration.
  • Attending the 2024 WRC Safari Rally in Naivasha, holding hands with her adoptive father.
  • Joining state visits, including a trip to Ghana alongside the President and First Lady.
Ruto family

Nadia Cherono’s Transformation

From a fragile, abandoned infant to a confident young girl, Nadia’s transformation has been remarkable. Photos over the years show her:

  • As a toddler, shy but happy in Ruto’s care.
  • Growing up in the First Family, I attended events with elegance.
  • Bonding with President Ruto, seen playing and laughing with him.

Nadia Cherono Ruto’s story has inspired many, proving that love and care can rewrite even the darkest beginnings.


Public Perception & Impact

Nadia’s adoption has been both praised and scrutinized:

  • Supporters see it as an act of compassion, highlighting Ruto’s kindness.
  • Critics argue it was a political move, though Nadia’s continued presence in the family disproves this.

Regardless, her life serves as a beacon of hope for abandoned children in Kenya.


Conclusion

Nadia Cherono Ruto’s journey—from a buried newborn to a beloved daughter in Kenya’s First Family—is nothing short of miraculous. Her story underscores the power of adoption, resilience, and unconditional love.

As she grows, the world watches with admiration, reminded that every child deserves a chance at life, love, and happiness.

Meet President Ruto's Adopted Daughter - Nadia Cherono

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