Before and after: How Ruto transformed ex-VP Murumbi’s Kilgoris mega mansion into modern marvel

President William Ruto’s Intonna mansion in Kilgoris is a stunning sight, with its grand design, manicured grounds and beautifully finished interiors giving the property an impressive modern look.

But the sprawling residence has not always looked this way. The same place was once largely forgotten, with the mansion falling into disrepair and nature gradually taking over the property.

From Murumbi’s retreat to Ruto’s residence

The mansion was originally the rural retreat of former Vice President Joseph Zuzarte Murumbi, Kenya’s second Vice President, who developed the property with his wife, Sheila, after leaving active politics.

Murumbi, who was known for his interest in agriculture, art and African heritage, used the property as a countryside home and retreat.

The estate included the main mansion and other facilities, with the house estimated to have 35 rooms.

After Murumbi died in 1990, however, the property gradually fell into neglect.

The once-grand mansion became worn out, with parts of the building weathered and some doors and windows reportedly missing.

Vegetation also began taking over sections of the compound, leaving the property with a largely forgotten appearance.

Years later, the property would undergo a major transformation after becoming associated with President William Ruto.

From neglected mansion to modern home

Today, the difference is striking.

The exterior has been given a fresh finish, while large windows, imposing entrances and landscaped grounds give the mansion a polished modern appearance.

The surrounding compound has also been carefully maintained, with greenery and open spaces adding to the property’s appeal.

The transformation is even more noticeable inside the residence.

The mansion features spacious rooms with large windows that allow plenty of natural light into the house. White walls, polished marble floors and modern furniture give the interiors a clean and contemporary appearance.

Large carved doors add character to the property, while the spacious rooms and modern finishes create the feel of a private luxury residence.

The design brings together elements of the property’s older identity with newer finishes, allowing the historic structure to retain some of its character while taking on a modern appearance.

A sprawling property beyond the mansion

The mansion is only part of the expansive Intonna Heritage Farm.

The property stretches across large grounds, with agricultural activity forming part of the estate. Rows of macadamia trees can be seen across sections of the farm, while sheep are also kept on the property.

An airstrip is also part of the expansive estate, adding to the property’s secluded and private character.

The combination of the mansion, open grounds, landscaped sections and agricultural activities gives Intonna a distinct appearance beyond that of an ordinary country home.

Kilgoris as a growing family base

The property has hosted several notable visitors and events over the years, further cementing its place as an important location for the Ruto family and their guests.

In December 2024, Ruto welcomed Ghana’s then President-elect John Dramani Mahama to the ranch, with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga also present. Their discussions touched on Kenya-Ghana relations, trade, agriculture, mining and tourism.

Former African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat has also visited the property.

The ranch has also been used for government engagements. On March 30, 2024, Ruto chaired a high-level security meeting at the property focused on security concerns in the North Rift.

The property has therefore evolved beyond a private countryside residence, hosting family occasions, political engagements, high-profile visitors and official meetings.

Intonna takes centre stage

The property recently drew public attention when Ruto’s daughter Charlene held her traditional Koito ceremony there in August 2026.

The occasion gave the public a rare glimpse of the residence, with images showing its large entrance doors, spacious rooms, marble floors, modern furniture and expansive windows.

The mansion’s appearance stood in sharp contrast to descriptions of the property from years earlier, when the residence had been left largely forgotten.

Today, Intonna Heritage Farm presents a very different picture — a carefully maintained estate with a modern mansion, landscaped grounds and expansive surroundings, far removed from the neglected property it once was.