William Ruto Renovates State House Nairobi, Replaces Iconic Red Tiles with Modern Flat Roof
Kenyan President William Ruto has unveiled a significant transformation of Nairobi’s State House, replacing the iconic red-tile roofing with a sleek flat roof design. On January 25, during a visit by Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, the revamped State House caught the attention of many.
A Century-Old Landmark Gets a Facelift
The State House, built in 1907 as the residence of Governor Sir Edward Gregg, served as the home for Kenya’s heads of state since independence. However, its iconic red tiles, which defined its look for over a century, are now history. A uniform flat roof now graces the structure, topped by a dormer holding the presidential standard.
This renovation is part of an extensive makeover launched by President Ruto shortly after assuming office. His administration has poured billions into upgrading the compound’s interior and exterior, ensuring a modern look that matches its historical significance.
Other Recent Changes
The new flat roof follows other updates, including replacing the asphalt tarmac in 2023 with durable grey cabro blocks. While some applauded the upgrades, others criticized them, arguing that the traditional tarmac was more resilient.
In early 2024, State House was closed for nearly two months for additional renovations. President Ruto operated from state lodges in Nakuru, Eldoret, Nyeri, and Kisumu during this period. The upgrades included reinforcing walls, strengthening pillars, and constructing a new pavilion to host visiting dignitaries.
Interestingly, Ruto declined proposals to build a new State House, citing its prohibitive cost of over KSh 2 billion. Instead, he opted for periodic renovations, which critics say still burden the taxpayer.
Cost and Public Reaction
While the revamped State House is undoubtedly a marvel, the financial implications are raising eyebrows. In October 2023, Ruto’s office was allocated KSh 700 million for constructing a modern presidential dais. The 2023/2024 supplementary budget estimates revealed that the total allocation for State House Nairobi stood at KSh 4.1 billion.
This includes KSh 3.2 billion for operations and maintenance and KSh 900 million for State House affairs. Many Kenyans question these expenses, especially amid economic challenges, high taxation, and austerity measures affecting everyday citizens.
Citizen Criticism
Critics argue the funds could have been redirected to pressing sectors like healthcare, education, and food security. “While the renovations present a sight to behold, they do little to address the biting economic realities,” one citizen lamented.
Despite the backlash, the upgrades highlight Ruto’s vision to modernize Kenya’s presidential residence while preserving its historical significance.
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William Ruto Renovates State House Nairobi, Replaces Iconic Red Tiles with Modern Flat Roof
