Nairobi, Kenya – September 14, 2025: President William Ruto has once again captured public attention after choosing to worship at the modest mabati church inside State House, Nairobi, even as preparations continue to transform the humble iron-sheet sanctuary into a Ksh 1.2 billion modern worship facility.
The simple mabati church, which has long served as a place of prayer for the President and his close allies, is now set for a massive facelift. The new project promises to deliver a state-of-the-art mega sanctuary befitting the stature of the Head of State.
Photos from the service showed Ruto deep in prayer alongside congregants, fueling speculation and debate about the high cost of the proposed transformation.
Ruto Reaffirms Commitment To Worship Facility
Speaking during the service, the President assured believers that the upgrade would ensure a more accommodating place of worship within the State House compound.
“Here at State House, God will bless us to get a better place for worship. We will not have some people worshipping from outside since we will have a bigger place,” Ruto declared.
He added, “I am confident that God will make provisions for us to have a place where we can worship Him in this compound.”
Debate Over The Cost Of Worship
While many of his supporters applauded the move as a sign of his faith, the reported Ksh 1.2 billion price tag has sparked conversations online, with some critics questioning whether such an investment is justifiable at a time when Kenyans face pressing economic challenges.
Nonetheless, Ruto has remained firm in his commitment, framing the project not only as a religious milestone but also as part of his legacy in shaping a culture of faith and national spirituality at the heart of power.
The planned mega sanctuary is expected to replace the iron-sheet structure with a permanent, world-class worship center, capable of hosting larger congregations during State House services.
As the project unfolds, the mabati church remains symbolic of the President’s grassroots approach to faith, even as it evolves into a grander facility.
