The photo that changed 2017: Why Mwarv almost ran away from a State House shoot

According to a report by Kenyans.co.ke, published on Saturday, November 7, 2026, Kenyan photographer Mwangi Kirubi, popularly known as Mwarv, has recalled how an unexpected State House assignment involving former President Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto left him worried about delivering quality work.

The assignment came in May 2017 when a photographer initially selected to take campaign portraits of the two leaders became unavailable. A contact working at State House recommended Mwarv for the job.

He initially suspected the phone call was a prank. However, after confirming the opportunity, he collected his photography equipment and headed to State House.

His concerns increased when he realised that the photography setup required equipment he did not have. With two of the country’s most powerful political figures waiting for the assignment, he feared producing photographs that would not meet the expected standards.

Mwarv subsequently contacted fellow photographer Allan Gichigi, whose work he admired, and invited him to collaborate on the project.

The photography session was initially postponed because of changes in the presidential schedule. The two photographers returned on May 4, 2017, arriving at State House at approximately 6:30am.

They were required to surrender their electronic devices before preparing their equipment and waiting for the two leaders.

Deputy President Ruto arrived first, followed by Uhuru. However, strict presidential protocol threatened to make the photography session too formal.

Gichigi reportedly eased the atmosphere by playing rhumba music and songs by legendary South African musician Miriam Makeba. The music helped the leaders relax, allowing the photographers to capture more natural expressions.

The photographs were needed for campaign posters and manifestos ahead of the 2017 General Election, when Uhuru and Ruto were seeking another presidential term under the Jubilee Party.

Reflecting on the experience, Mwarv said the assignment taught him the importance of teamwork, recognising his limitations and seeking assistance when handling demanding professional responsibilities.

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