A heartwarming and unexpected moment captured the attention of attendees during the NYOTA start-up capital launch in Nyeri, which saw KSh 173.2 million disbursed to support aspiring entrepreneurs. The spotlight unexpectedly shifted when a baby, in a display of surprising preference, appeared to choose President William Ruto over their own mother.
The incident occurred as President Ruto mingled with participants and beneficiaries of the program. While the mother held the infant, attempting to guide their attention, the baby stretched out enthusiastically toward the President, drawing laughter and applause from onlookers.
The lighthearted interaction offered a brief reprieve from the official proceedings, highlighting the human side of political events. Many in attendance quickly shared the moment on social media, with users commenting on the baby’s apparent admiration for the President and the humorous nature of the encounter.
The NYOTA program, launched as part of the government’s efforts to empower youth and small-scale entrepreneurs, provides start-up capital and mentorship to help local businesses grow. The KSh 173.2 million funding, allocated to beneficiaries across Nyeri County, aims to create employment opportunities and stimulate economic activity in the region.
Witnesses said the baby’s reaction brought smiles to everyone present, including the President, who laughed and gently engaged with the infant. “It was a small, unexpected moment, but it reminded us that politics and governance also have a human side,” one attendee noted.
The event combined serious policy discussions with lighter moments, such as this, showing how even formal ceremonies can produce memorable, viral-worthy interactions that resonate with the public.
