President William Ruto’s son George Ruto is making his mark in Kenya’s iconic matatu industry, unveiling a flashy new fleet of minibuses under the brand 98 Logistics in a ceremony that blended street culture with faith.
A TikTok video posted on Friday, September 18 shows George at a godown where the vehicles were being fabricated, dressed in a white T-shirt, matching jacket and blue jeans.
Video of George Ruto’s matatu launch
He appeared relaxed and upbeat as he walked preachers through the facility, giving them a close look at the brand-new PSVs before they went out on the road.
The matatus were built with all the hallmarks of Kenya’s beloved nganya culture.
On the outside, the buses feature bold graphic wraps, offcut rims and colourful graffiti, including Roman numeral designs reading MCMXCVIII.
Inside, bespoke lighting and custom sound systems complete the experience, giving passengers a feel more akin to a party bus than a regular commuter ride.
After the tour, the mood shifted to something more reflective. The crew, dressed in black and white, gathered alongside the preachers for a prayer session held both inside and outside the vehicles.
The preachers anointed the matatus with oil, seeking blessings before the fleet officially set off.
The buses then headed to a fuel station before hitting the road for the first time.
The video drew a wave of responses online, ranging from admiration to sharp criticism. Here is what some Kenyans had to say:
@Simon Cimon:
“One thing with him is that he includes God in everything.”
@Simon Cimon:
“Bring these to Thika Road.”
@Emm production:
“Where did you get the money?”
@smith Gaddafi:
“Will you take over each sector? Leave nganyas to us.”
@hashim +254:
“Hospitals are not working because of money, and here we are – welcome to Kenya.”
