President William Ruto made headlines at the Mombasa International Agriculture Society of Kenya (ASK) Show today after purchasing a rare 885-kilogram Chianina bull for Sh1 million during a high-profile livestock auction.
The Italian-origin Chianina breed, imported from South Africa, was the star attraction of the event, drawing spirited bidding from several top government officials.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi opened the bidding at Sh300,000, followed by President Ruto with a Sh400,000 offer.
Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Nassir quickly countered with Sh500,000, prompting Kingi to raise the stakes to Sh550,000.
The bidding war continued as Abdullswamad responded with Sh600,000 before President Ruto pushed it to Sh700,000.
A brief discussion among the dignitaries — including Ruto, Kingi, Abdullswamad, Livestock Principal Secretary Jonathan Mueke, and Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya — culminated in Mvurya announcing a joint final bid of Sh1 million on behalf of the Head of State.
The Chianina, known for its size, white coat, and premium beef quality, is one of the oldest cattle breeds in the world, originally from Italy.
Earlier in the auction, President Ruto had also bid Sh200,000 for a 679-kilogram Santa Gertrudis bull. That animal was ultimately purchased by CS Mvurya for Sh350,000.
The event highlighted the government’s continued focus on livestock farming and agricultural investment across the country.
