Emmanuel Kurui’s 203 km Wheelbarrow Trek Ends with Meeting President Ruto at State House

Emmanuel Kurui, a resident of Mogotio Constituency in Baringo County, has captured national attention after completing a 203-kilometre journey on foot while pushing a wheelbarrow from his home to State House Nairobi, culminating in a personal meeting with President William Ruto on Wednesday. 

Kurui, who began his trek in late January from Noiwet trading centre in Baringo, walked the long distance to Nairobi while pushing a UDA-branded yellow wheelbarrow — the symbol strongly associated with President Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party. 

The journey drew the support of local residents, who flagged off Kurui and his group — including fellow youths and supporters — at the start of the trek. Along the way, they stopped briefly in towns such as Naivasha, where well-wishers provided water, encouragement, and rest before continuing the march. 

Purpose of the Walk

Kurui said the trek was a gesture of gratitude to President Ruto for key development projects implemented in Mogotio and Baringo, including improvements in roads, water supply, and other infrastructure that he said have improved life for residents. 

The wheelbarrow — painted in UDA’s characteristic yellow and branded with party slogans — served both as a practical tool and a visible political symbol, reinforcing Kurui’s support for the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. 

Meeting at State House

On arrival in Nairobi, Kurui first visited the UDA party headquarters, where he was welcomed by senior officials before being escorted to State House during the ongoing UDA Aspirants’ Forum — an event that brought together thousands of party hopefuls from across the country.

President Ruto received Kurui warmly at State House, posing for photographs and engaging in brief discussions. Kurui presented the wheelbarrow to the President as a symbolic gift. 

Accompanying Kurui was Mogotio MP Reuben Kiborek, who described the meeting as a “proud moment” for the constituency and praised Kurui’s determination and initiative. 

The meeting took place against the backdrop of the UDA forum, where top party officials including Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and UDA Secretary-General Hassan Omar were present. In his address, President Ruto emphasised the importance of grassroots participation and encouraged aspirants to campaign actively in their localities. Ruto also announced a waiver on the KSh 200 fee for aspirants registering within the party ahead of the upcoming nominations.