President William Ruto has been inducted into the American Academy of Achievement.

Ruto was inducted into the American Academy of Achievement on Friday during a Golden Plate Award ceremony held in Washington, DC.

The chairperson of the Academy Wayne Reynolds lauded Ruto for his inspiring journey from the village and his determination.

“From a village in Kenya, owning his first pair of shoes at the age of 15, rising through politics, studying to the highest level of academic achievement, and inspiring a generation in the art of what is possible, with hard work, faith, and determination,” Reynolds said.

Council member Dr Ben Carson presented the prestigious Golden Plate award to Ruto.

With recognition and induction, Ruto joins the ranks of other distinguished achievers including world-renowned leaders such as the former US President Barack Obama, and former South African President the late Nelson Mandela.


Other notable people to be inducted are the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Oprah Winfrey, Jeff Bezos, Bill Gates and renowned actor the late Sidney Poitier.

The American Academy of Achievement has presented the Golden Plate Award has been presented since 1961 following a selection process by the Academy’s Award Council and distinguished bodies.

The awards recognise men and women who have made exceptional accomplishments in various fields such as sciences, sports, literature, business, entertainment professions, public service, arts and industry.