RUTO stunned as a baby pinches his ear during NYOTA fund launch in Malindi - “Wewe Unanichuna Maskio kwa sababu gani”

Thursday, February 05, 2026 - President William Ruto found himself at the center of a lighthearted moment during the launch of the NYOTA Start-Up Capital programme in Malindi on Thursday, February 5^th, 2026.

The playful incident unfolded when Ruto took a beneficiary’s child into his arms to allow the mother to speak comfortably about how the funds will support her small business.

As the mother addressed the gathering, the child began tugging at the President’s ears and reaching for the microphone, drawing laughter from the crowd.

Ruto, visibly amused, jokingly scolded the little girl:

“Wewe unanichuna maskio kwa sababu gani wewe, lakini uwache kusumbua mama yako Fahima,” he said with a chuckle, before handing her back to her mother.

He also asked warmly, “Na huyu mrembo anaitwa aje?”

The candid exchange quickly became the highlight of the event, showcasing a softer side of the Head of State.

Beyond the laughter, the occasion marked the rollout of the NYOTA Start-Up Capital programme across Kilifi, Tana River and Lamu counties.

The initiative targets young entrepreneurs, offering Ksh25,000 in the first phase - Ksh22,000 for business use and Ksh3,000 in savings under the National Social Security Fund.

Beneficiaries will later receive an additional Ksh25,000, bringing the total support to Ksh50,000.

Implemented in partnership with the World Bank, NYOTA is part of the Government’s broader youth empowerment agenda, focusing on business growth, financial inclusion, and job creation.

The Kenyan DAILY POST