President Ruto Returns to Renovated State House After Two-Year Closure

President William Ruto has resumed official duties at State House Nairobi following a two-year closure for extensive renovations. 

The historic building, which had undergone significant modernisation, is now ready to once again serve as the centre of executive power. For the duration of the renovations, Dr Ruto had conducted presidential operations from a newly constructed pavilion located to the east of the main residence. 

The pavilion, completed early in his term, became the site for several high-profile announcements and national addresses. The wide wooden doors and dramatic design of the pavilion became symbolic of his administration's public engagements. Recent images confirm the President’s return to the main building, where meetings with political leaders and international dignitaries have already taken place. 

Changes to the facade are evident, including the replacement of the red-tiled roof, merged porches, and the introduction of marble flooring with floral patterns. The restoration of the iconic semi-circular transom window above the front door marks a return to the building’s traditional design elements.

State House officials maintain that both the main building and the pavilion will continue to serve complementary roles. Public Communications Director Wanjohi Githae explained that the relocation was necessary for the renovations of the century-old structure. Both spaces, he said, would remain integral to presidential functions.

However, the redesign has faced criticism. The Architectural Association of Kenya raised concerns about the risk of losing the building's cultural significance, while historian John Kamau criticised the lack of public consultation, suggesting the changes undermined heritage preservation. 

Government officials have defended the project, pointing out that State House had not undergone major renovations for over a century. A budget allocation of Sh680.7 million in 2025-26 highlights the scale of the investment.