Wetang’ula reflects on the joy of parenthood as he celebrates Charlene Ruto’s Koito
By Katemarthason Okudo, August 9, 2026Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula has reflected on the joy of parenthood as he congratulated Charlene Ruto and Tanzanian entrepreneur Isaya Yunge following their traditional engagement ceremony in Kilgoris, Narok County.
The ceremony, known as Koito ak Chaik, was held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Intonna Heritage Farm, President William Ruto’s family ranch, bringing together members of the Ruto family, politicians, government officials and other guests.
For Wetang’ula, the occasion was also a reminder of the emotions parents experience when their children grow up and begin building families of their own.
Wetang’ula celebrates Charlene’s milestone
Sharing his thoughts after attending the ceremony, Wetang’ula said watching children become responsible adults and start families is one of the most fulfilling experiences for a parent.
The speaker, who is also a father and grandfather, said the occasion allowed him to appreciate the significance of the milestone for Charlene’s family.
“There is no greater joy for a parent than seeing their children grow into responsible, independent adults ready to build families of their own,” Wetang’ula said.
He added that such moments come with a sense of pride and gratitude, particularly for parents who have watched their children grow from childhood into adulthood.
Charlene and Isaya mark traditional engagement
The Koito ak Chaik ceremony marked an important traditional stage in Charlene’s relationship with Isaya Yunge, a Tanzanian technology and social entrepreneur. The celebration brought together the two families as Charlene prepared to begin a new chapter with her husband-to-be.
Wetang’ula joined President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto, together with family and friends, for the traditional engagement and farewell celebration.
He congratulated the couple and wished them a future built around values that can guide them through marriage. “I congratulate the newly engaged couple and wish them a journey filled with faith, wisdom, love, happiness and prosperity,” he said.
A special day for the Ruto family
Charlene’s Koito ceremony had attracted attention in the weeks leading up to the event after an invitation bearing the names of President Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto was shared publicly.
The invitation announced the Koito ak Chaik ceremony for their daughter, Charlene Chelagat Ruto, setting the stage for the traditional celebration in Kilgoris. The presence of Charlene’s parents added a family dimension to the occasion, with the President and First Lady joining relatives and guests in marking the milestone.
The ceremony also offered a glimpse into the traditional celebrations as the two families came together.
Wetang’ula’s message to the couple
As Charlene and Isaya begin preparations for the next stage of their relationship, Wetang’ula urged them to approach the journey with faith, wisdom and love.
He also prayed for a long and fulfilling life together. “May God bless their union and grant them many years of joy and fulfilment,” he added.
For Charlene’s family, the Koito ak Chaik marked more than a traditional engagement. It was a moment to celebrate family, culture and the transition of a daughter into a new chapter of her life.