President William Ruto on Sunday set Kenyans' tongues wagging after being spotted wearing a Stefano Ricci designer belt worth Ksh428,000 during a church service.

The whole episode triggered the interest of Kenyans largely because Kenyans are currently going through tough economic times exacerbated by policies introduced by the current administration. 

Kenyans have also been pricked by the latest trend where senior Kenya Kwanza leaders have been consistently photographed wearing expensive designer clothes in public, which many have opined is insensitive due to the current State of the Nation.

On Sunday, President Ruto was caught on camera wearing a grey coat, a light blue shirt, and cream trousers, an ensemble that was complemented by the Stefano Ricci (SR) matte-black crocodile leather belt. 

Initially, there was speculation that the belt bore a monogram, subtly incorporating the initials SR, corresponding to the Head of State's name, William Samoei Ruto.

Another line of heated debate was whether wearing designer belts bought from foreign stores aligns with the President's vision to promote local manufacturing. 

The Head of State has been vocal in calling for Kenyans to support Kenyan industries by buying locally manufactured goods.

A section of Kenyans also seized the opportunity to poke fun at Ruto questioning why the Head of State has been asking Kenyans to tighten their belts at a time, he was wearing expensive belts.

According to Stefano Ricci's official website, the specific belt Ruto was wearing cost Ksh428,400 (USD 2,800) and comes in three colours.

The belt is made in Italy and has a width of 38 milli -meters and features a galvanised gold buckle. 

"Every handmade SR leather belt demonstrates the very best Made in Italy quality. Ensuring details remain a defining factor of a chic ensemble, SR presents this matted crocodile leather belt. Adorned with the signature entwined logo within a galvanised gold buckle, this belt will be the ideal accessory for any discerning gent," reads the website.

Earlier in the year, Ruto was spotted wearing a Ksh5 million watch, also during a church service.

Kenyans have criticised current government officials for their extravagance. In August, Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen was spotted wearing Ksh131,000 Gucci sneakers while attending a crisis meeting at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). By Maureen Njoki, Kenyans.co.ke