On Saturday, September 13, 2025, President William Ruto made history by hosting an unprecedented gathering of 10,000 teachers at State House, Nairobi, during what was dubbed the ‘Walimu na Rais’ forum. The event brought together educators from across the country, accompanied by officials from various teachers’ unions, for a rare interaction with the Head of State.
Unlike previous State House forums—often reserved for small business groups, boda boda operators, political mobilisers, preachers, and regional delegations—this meeting stood out for the sheer scale and the stature of its guests. Teachers, widely regarded as pillars of society, arrived at the venue as early as 3:00 am, eager to take part in the historic forum.
The day was marked by a mix of presidential pleasantries, hearty meals, and engaging conversations about the role of educators in shaping the future of Kenya. However, what drew the most attention was the Ksh. 10,000 reimbursement offered to attendees. Reports indicated long queues as teachers patiently waited to receive their allowances, a gesture that sparked mixed reactions among observers.
For many, the event symbolized the President’s acknowledgment of the critical role teachers play in national development. It provided an opportunity for dialogue on issues such as salaries, working conditions, professional development, and the future of the education sector under the current administration.
Critics, however, questioned whether the forum leaned more towards political theatrics than genuine policy engagement. The idea of respected professionals queuing for stipends after a State House event stirred debate on social media, with some calling it “a well-choreographed public relations move.”
Still, the sheer magnitude of the event underscored the government’s intention to draw teachers closer to the center of national conversations. For many educators, being recognized at the highest seat of power—something rarely accorded in Kenya’s political landscape—was a moment of pride.
The ‘Walimu na Rais’ forum may well set a precedent for how the government engages professionals in shaping national policy. Whether it will translate into tangible changes for the teaching profession remains to be seen, but the symbolic gesture has already left a mark on Kenya’s political and educational history.
