Watch Ruto jamming to 'Kasongo' during New Year's party

President William Ruto ushered in the New Year with a vibrant celebration at the Kisii State Lodge, where he delighted attendees by dancing to the popular Lingala song "Kasongo."

The event, held on January 1, 2025, was attended by various dignitaries, local leaders, and members of the public.

"Kasongo," originally performed by the Congolese band Orchestra Super Mazembe, has recently gained renewed popularity across social media platforms in Kenya. 

The song has been humorously associated with President Ruto, with some netizens referring to him as "Kasongo Yeye," a nickname inspired by the song's lyrics.

During the festivities, President Ruto took to the dance floor as "Kasongo" played, showcasing his dance moves and engaging with the audience. 

The President's dance to "Kasongo" has since become a talking point on social media, with many Kenyans sharing clips of the moment and adding their own humorous commentary. 

New Year’s Speech

In his New Year address, President Ruto reflected on a year of both challenges and achievements, setting an optimistic tone for the year ahead. 

The President acknowledged the economic hardships, political instability, and climatic crises that marked the year, highlighting how Kenya had confronted issues such as drought, floods, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

These struggles were compounded by global economic shocks that drove up the cost of living and worsened food insecurity. 

However, Ruto emphasised that despite these setbacks, the year also saw notable progress in key sectors.

“Our resolve was tested, but we emerged stronger,” said the President. “We have made steady progress in feeding the nation, improving food security, and enhancing our healthcare system.”

Ruto outlined the achievements of his administration, including the roll-out of universal healthcare, the construction of affordable housing units, and the expansion of digital services. 

He also pointed to the increased productivity in agriculture and efforts to tackle unemployment, particularly through the Hustler Fund, which has enabled more Kenyans to access loans and invest in micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises.

Significant strides have also been made in education. The President noted the expansion of school infrastructure and the training of more teachers to support the transition to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). 

He highlighted that the government is working to make higher education more inclusive and accessible to all, a message that resonated strongly with parents and young learners.

Ruto also addressed the critical importance of national security, acknowledging the challenges posed by terrorism, banditry, and organised crime. 

He assured Kenyans that the government is committed to strengthening security services to ensure public safety. 

However, the President also urged citizens to engage in constructive dialogue on the delicate balance between security and democratic freedoms, particularly in the face of protests and demonstrations.