The chatter around State House Nairobi is abuzz, with the revamped look of the Presidential residence sparking mixed reactions. While some are impressed, many have voiced their disappointment, outraged by what they describe as erasure of history.
The iconic red-tiled roof that graced the building for over a century has been replaced with a modern flat roof design, featuring a dormer proudly displaying the presidential standard.
Other renovations include replacing the asphalt tarmac around the residence with cabro blocks. The walls and pillars were also reinforced, complemented by the construction of a new pavilion to host visiting dignitaries, cutting down costs on rented tents for lawn events.
During the two-month revamping that started in January 2024, State House was out of bounds to facilitate the fast-tracking of the renovations.
President William Ruto temporarily relocated to various state houses and lodges across the country, which also served as convenient bases during his national tours. Below is a list of these residences.
State Houses in Kenya
1.Nairobi State House
State House Nairobi, located in the capital, is the President’s primary official residence. Built in 1907 by British architect Sir Herbert Baker, it was initially Government House and housed the Governor of British East Africa. After independence, it became the residence of Kenya’s first President, Jomo Kenyatta.
2.Mombasa State House
As the President’s official coastal residence, State House Mombasa is located in the capital city of Mombasa and was the British Governor’s first residence in Kenya.
Built in 1897, the building was built in close proximity to the ocean and now commodates the President and various heads of state during coastal region engagements.
3.Nakuru State House
Found in Nakuru, it serves the President during visits to the Rift Valley region. It was Mzee Jomo Kenyatta’s favourite State House, and was likened to his vacation home. He brought various heads of state including Ethiopia’s Haile Selassie and Uganda’s Idi Amin. To this day, State House Nakuru is a preferred abode by Kenyan presidents.
State Lodges in Kenya
In addition to the State Houses, there are several State Lodges distributed across various counties. In these residences, the President holds official and private functions.
Located in scenic and private settings, these residences are equipped with cutting-edge security features and lavish amenities, including swimming pools, golf courses, and tennis courts.
Sagana State Lodge
Sagana State Lodge, located in Nyeri County, holds historical significance as it was originally built as a royal residence and gifted to the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh for their wedding in 1947.
After Kenya achieved her independence in 1963, the late Queen handed the lodge back to the Kenyan government.
Eldoret State Lodge
This State Lodge caters to presidential engagements within Uasin Gishu County.
Located in his hometown, President William Ruto received the 2024 Paris Olympic medalists at this residence ahead of the conferment of the municipality to city status in August 2024.
Kisumu State Lodge
The Kisumu State Lodge is the official Presidential residence during engagements in the Nyanza region. The national landmark also serves as a museum, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the nation’s history.
Kisii State Lodge
Initially built to serve as the county commissioner’s residence, the Kisii State Lodge is the Presidential abode for when he has official duties in Kisii County.
Cherang’any State Lodge
The mansion once owned by a World War One soldier Lt Col. H.F Stonearm is located on the top of Cherang’any Hills and caters to presidential visits in the Cherang’any area of Trans-Nzoia County.
Kakamega State Lodge
This state lodge accommodates presidential events and activities in the Western region.
Kitale State Lodge
This lodge serves the President during state affairs within Trans-Nzoia County.
Rumuruti State Lodge
During presidential engagements in Laikipia County, the state lodge is official residence of the Head of state.
