From slimming to diplomacy: Ruto’s diet advice steals the show at State House

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President of Kenya, William Ruto, hosted Mozambique President Daniel Francisco Chapo at State House, Nairobi, where a light moment about diet and fitness unexpectedly stole the spotlight.

Dr Ruto told his guest that discipline--including what one eats--plays a key role in performance, pointing to Kenya’s world-beating athletes who train early, eat carefully and maintain strict routines.

The remarks came as he explained why Kenyan runners dominate global competitions.

The comments quickly tied into an ongoing political debate back home.

Dr Ruto has in recent weeks defended his noticeable weight loss, saying it reflects discipline and the demands of office.

He has also traded jabs with opposition leaders, at one point contrasting his lean frame with what he described as “obese” critics — remarks that have sparked public debate and political pushback.

But at State House, the tone remained largely humorous as the two leaders engaged, offering a rare glimpse of informal diplomacy.

Beyond the banter, the meeting focused on strengthening ties between Kenya and Mozambique--a Southeast African nation with growing economic and security cooperation with Nairobi.

Dr Ruto said the two countries are working to boost trade and unlock untapped opportunities by removing tariff and non-tariff barriers.

He identified tourism, clean energy, aviation, the blue economy and maritime cooperation as key sectors for joint growth.

The President also highlighted collaboration in counter-terrorism and regional stability, saying both nations share a broader goal of prosperity and integration across Africa.

During the visit, the two leaders witnessed the signing of several agreements and memoranda of understanding covering diplomatic training, research and capacity building, correctional services, and youth development and sports.

Mozambique is one of Africa’s emerging economies with strong coastal resources, while Kenya is positioning itself as a regional hub for trade, transport and diplomacy.

The State House meeting showed both sides pushing serious economic and security agendas--even as a simple message about diet and discipline grabbed public attention.