[PHOTOS] Leaders don white kanzus as Ruto hosts Eid luncheon

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President William Ruto on Friday hosted a special Eid-ul-Fitr luncheon for Muslim leaders and the community in Kisumu, kicking off a series of high-level engagements during his tour of the Nyanza region.

The event, held at State Lodge Kisumu, drew a cross-section of leaders, largely aligned to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), and underscored ongoing political outreach in the region.

Guests arrived dressed in traditional white kanzus and taqiyahs, giving the gathering a distinct cultural and religious tone.

Among those present were Oburu Odinga, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, and Suna East MP Junet Mohamed.

The gathering comes as Ruto intensifies his charm offensive in the region, with the President expected to hold further consultations with political and community leaders.

The engagements are expected to focus on development priorities, regional unity, and the status of key government projects.

Ruto arrived in Kisumu on Thursday evening via Kisumu Port, where he was received by Governor Nyong’o before proceeding to State Lodge.

His visit to the lakeside city follows an earlier stop in Narok County, where he launched another segment of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR).

The Kisumu leg forms part of a broader five-day tour of the Nyanza region running from March 20 to March 24, during which the Head of State is expected to commission and inspect key development projects across several counties.

In a message shared earlier, President Ruto joined the Muslim faithful in celebrating Eid al-Fitr, highlighting the values of sacrifice, devotion, charity, and reflection observed during the holy month of Ramadan.

He noted that the occasion serves as a reminder of faith, unity, and gratitude, urging Kenyans to extend kindness to the less fortunate and foster harmony within communities.

"We join the Muslim community in celebrating Eid al-Fitr following the sacred month of Ramadan, a time of sacrifice, devotion, prayer, charity, and reflection," he said.

"May all acts of worship be accepted, hearts renewed and strengthened, and the spirit of faith continue to guide our nation and us."

Oburu Odinga, who attended the luncheon, described the event as a moment of reflection and unity.

He emphasised the importance of diversity and peaceful coexistence, noting that national strength lies in collective commitment to inclusivity and shared prosperity.

"Let us use this Eid to uplift one another and continue the work of building a country where every Kenyan has a stake in our collective prosperity," he said.

He also extended Eid greetings to the Muslim community, wishing them renewed faith and peace in their homes.