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Mama Ngina Kenyatta, the Richest Woman in Kenya

August 28, 2024

Mama Ngina Kenyatta, the Richest Woman in Kenya

Few witnessed the building of the young Kenyan state from within as did Mama Ngina Kenyatta. Born Ngina Muhoho, is an iconic figure in Kenyan history.

As the widow of Kenya’s first president, Jomo Kenyatta, and the mother of the fourth president, Uhuru Kenyatta,

She was by her husband’s side when Kenya won independence 60 years ago and for many turbulent years thereafter. Although Kenyatta was polygamous, it was the younger Mama Ngina who took on the roles of first lady.

Who is Mama Ngina Kenyatta?

Her influence extends beyond her roles as a wife and mother. She is a symbol of resilience, strength, and grace in the face of the challenges that have marked Kenya’s history.

Early life and background

Mama Ngina Kenyatta was born in 1933 in Ngenda, a small village in Kiambu County, Kenya. She was the daughter of Chief Muhoho wa Gathecha, a prominent leader of the Agikuyu community.

Growing up in a traditional Kikuyu family, Mama Ngina was raised with the values of hard work, discipline, and loyalty to her family and community.

At a young age, Ngina was married to Jomo Kenyatta, who was then a rising political figure and a leader in the struggle for Kenya’s independence. Despite the age difference, their marriage was built on mutual respect and shared values.

Mama Ngina quickly became an important figure in Kenyatta’s life, providing him with the support and stability he needed during the tumultuous years leading up to Kenya’s independence.

Marriage to Jomo Kenyatta

Ngina married Jomo Kenyatta in 1952 at the age of 19. That year, Kenyatta was arrested and subsequently jailed on charges of masterminding the anti-colonial Mau Mau uprising. By then, he had spent years abroad (mainly in England), where he embraced anti-colonialist and Pan-African ideas.

Back home he was elected president of Kenya African Union, before becoming the front figure of the Kenya African National Union (KANU), the party that would go on to lead Kenya to independence.

Kenyatta’s marriage to Ngina was his fourth. He had married Grace Wahu in 1920, Edna Clark in 1942 and Grace Wanjiku in 1946.

The last marriage had political significance because Ngina was the daughter of a senior chief, Muhoho wa Gatheca, who held an administrative position of great influence. By then, Kenyatta was expanding his political base, so this marriage secured an alliance with an important clan.

Mama Ngina is to be seen in many official photographs of the early days, protectively herding their young children in State House. The first-born was Christine Wambui-Pratt, who is today an advocate for people living with disability.

The second was Uhuru Muigai Kenyatta, who became Kenya’s fourth president (2013-2022). The third was Nyokabi Muthama, now a businesswoman and philanthropist. Muhoho Kenyatta, the reclusive last-born, is reputedly the engine of the Kenyatta family business empire.

Away from family, Mama Ngina was often involved in supporting various Harambee (community development) projects. Yet very little was known about her and in particular her political influence during this period.

First lady of Kenya

In 1963, Kenya gained independence from British colonial rule, and Jomo Kenyatta became the country’s first president. As the First Lady, Mama Ngina assumed a prominent role in the new government, representing Kenya at various official functions and state visits.

She quickly became known for her poise and elegance, embodying the dignity and grace expected of a leader’s wife. Mama Ngina’s influence extended beyond her public appearances. She was actively involved in various charitable initiatives, focusing on issues such as education, health, and women’s empowerment.

Her work in these areas helped to improve the lives of many Kenyans, particularly those in marginalized communities. As First Lady, Mama Ngina set the standard for future generations of Kenyan women, demonstrating the importance of compassion, leadership, and service to the nation.

Kenyatta’s death and after

The way she handled the news of Kenyatta’s death on 21 August 1978 suggests she was preparing her political survival. At that time, jockeying for succession was fierce and the Kenyan political elite was profoundly divided over it.

So as the Mzee (“old man”) – as he was called – died. Mama Ngina and his stepsons Peter Magana and Peter Muigai informed their political allies with great discretion.

According to a report by the authoritative Weekly Review news magazine, one of the first to be informed was Daniel Arap Moi, then vice-president and constitutionally next in line to act as president.

This placed Moi in the lead of the succession battle at a time when some were opposed to his automatic succession. Only thereafter was Peter Mbiyu Koinange, Kenyatta’s long-time comrade and a prominent minister, informed, along with Kenyatta’s other children.

Mama Ngina took a low profile after the succession. She was inheriting a huge business empire which continued to expand.

Today, the holdings include land as well as shares in companies in banking, real estate, hospitality, mining, insurance, airlines, education, energy, dairy farming, transport and telecommunications.

Her role during the political transition was rewarded with political support by President Moi, according to news reports.

The Kenyatta Family Legacy

The Kenyatta family has played a central role in Kenya’s history. And Mama Ngina has been at the heart of this legacy. As the matriarch of the Kenyatta family, she has guided and nurtured her children, instilling in them the values of leadership, service, and patriotism.

Mama Ngina Kenyatta’s influence is evident in the achievements of her children, particularly her son Uhuru Kenyatta, who served as Kenya’s president from 2013 to 2022. Under Mama Ngina’s guidance, the Kenyatta family has remained a powerful force in Kenyan politics, with a legacy that continues to shape the country’s future.

Beyond politics, Mama Ngina has also been instrumental in the family’s business ventures. The Kenyatta family is one of the wealthiest and most influential families in Kenya. With interests in various sectors, including agriculture, real estate, and finance.

Her business acumen and her ability to manage the family’s wealth have contributed to their continued success and prominence.

Mama Ngina Kenyatta and William Ruto, Kenyan President

Mama Ngina Kenyatta Net Worth

Ngina Kenyatta is considered one of the wealthiest individuals in Kenya. Her wealth is derived from extensive land holdings and investments in various businesses.

Estimates of her net worth vary, with figures often cited in the hundreds of millions to over a billion dollars. However, precise and up-to-date figures are not publicly disclosed.

Here are some of the key aspects of her wealth:

1. Land ownership

The Kenyatta family is one of the largest landowners in Kenya. After Kenya’s independence, the family acquired large tracts of land. Some of which were part of the “settler lands” previously owned by British colonists. These lands are spread across different parts of the country, including in the fertile Rift Valley and coastal regions.

2. Business interests

Commercial Bank of Africa (CBA): The Kenyatta family holds significant shares in the CBA, one of Kenya’s largest banks. CBA merged with NIC Bank in 2019 to form NCBA Group, further consolidating the family’s wealth.
Brookside dairy: This is the largest dairy company in East Africa, with a substantial market share in Kenya. Brookside Dairy exports products to various countries in Africa and beyond. The Kenyatta family is the majority shareholder.
Media ownership: The family has stakes in the media industry, including in Mediamax Network Limited, which owns television stations, radio stations, and newspapers in Kenya.
Heritage hotels: Mama Ngina has investments in the hospitality sector. Including ownership of several high-end hotels and resorts under the Heritage Hotels brand.
Insurance: The family also has investments in insurance companies. Including shares in Jubilee Holdings, one of the largest insurance firms in East Africa.

3. Real estate

In addition to their land holdings, the Kenyatta family has significant investments in real estate development. Including commercial and residential properties in major cities like Nairobi and Mombasa.

4. Agriculture

The Kenyatta family is involved in large-scale farming, particularly in the production of tea, coffee, and dairy products. Their farms are among the most productive in Kenya, contributing significantly to their wealth.

5. Political Influence:

Beyond her direct business interests, Mama Ngina’s influence in Kenya’s political landscape has also played a role in maintaining and growing her wealth. The family’s close ties to political power have afforded them opportunities and protections that have helped sustain their economic dominance.

Impact on Kenyan Society

Mama Ngina Kenyatta’s impact on Kenyan society cannot be overstated. As a leader, philanthropist, and role model, she has inspired generations of Kenyan women to pursue leadership roles and contribute to the development of their communities.

Her dedication to improving the lives of others, particularly women and children, has left a lasting legacy that continues to benefit Kenya today.

Mama Ngina’s work in promoting education and healthcare has had a significant impact on the well-being of many Kenyans. Her initiatives have provided access to essential services for those who might otherwise have been excluded, helping to bridge the gap between the rich and poor.

Furthermore, Mama Ngina’s influence extends beyond Kenya’s borders. She is recognized internationally for her contributions to peace, development, and women’s rights.

Her leadership and vision have made her a respected figure on the global stage, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

Protecting “our son”

In 2013, the matriarch bounced back to the centre of Kenyan politics, the first woman to have been spouse and now mother of a sitting president. That would not have seemed likely when Uhuru Kenyatta was indicted by the International Criminal Court on charges of crimes against humanity.

The charges stemmed from the 2007-2008 post-election violence, in which Uhuru and William Ruto were on opposite sides. With Mama Ngina’s financial muscle behind them, the two formed the unlikely alliance that swept to power in 2013.

Planning began in April 2011, when Mama Ngina appeared at rallies where prayers were said for the indicted duo. According to the Daily Nation, Mama Ngina brokered the coalition between the two.

She also bankrolled the promotion of “our son” for president in Mount Kenya region, inhabited by her co-ethnics and related tribes.

Uhuru’s ICC case was dropped in 2014 and Ruto’s in 2016. They soon fell out. Ngina blamed Ruto for the rift. This in her eyes meant Uhuru was not to blame for breaking his 2013 campaign promise to back Ruto after his own term.

Mau Mau uneasy legacy

Mama Ngina recently came to the defence of the Kenyattas, who are accused of sidelining freedom fighters and their families. The historical grievance is that they did not benefit from post-independence allocations.

Ngina has sought to realign herself with the Mau Mau. She has claimed that she was among the Mau Mau women fighters. There is no archival evidence to support this, and her husband denounced the movement before independence. The group remained banned under his and the next presidency. It was finally lifted in 2003.

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It’s more likely that in an election campaign heavy with economic empowerment promises. This claim was her way of identifying with the marginalized, on behalf of the Kenyattas’ candidate. She can be counted on to defend the family name, in good times and bad.

The Legacy of Mama Ngina Kenyatta

Mama Ngina Kenyatta’s legacy is one of strength, resilience, and compassion. Throughout her life, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to her family, her country, and the values that have guided her.

Her contributions to Kenya’s independence, her role as First Lady, and her ongoing work in philanthropy have made her one of the most influential women in Kenyan history.

As Kenya continues to evolve and face new challenges. Mama Ngina Kenyatta’s legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of leadership, unity, and service to others.

Her life story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact that one person can have on the course of a nation’s history.

Conclusion

Mama Ngina Kenyatta’s life is one of remarkable achievements and enduring influence. From her early days as the wife of a freedom fighter to her role as the First Lady of an independent Kenya. Mama Ngina has played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s history and future.

Her legacy is not only defined by her association with the Kenyatta family. But also by her contributions to the well-being and progress of the Kenyan people.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How old is Mama Ngina Kenyatta?

Mama Ngina Kenyatta was born on June 24, 1933. As of 2024, she is 91 years old.

2. Who is the father of Mama Ngina Kenyatta?

The father of Mama Ngina Kenyatta is Chief Muhoho wa Gathecha. He was a prominent Kikuyu chief in Kenya. Mama Ngina, born Ngina Muhoho, comes from a well-known family in the Kikuyu community.

3. Who is the first born of Mama Ngina Kenyatta?

The firstborn of Mama Ngina is Christine Wambui Kenyatta, also known as Kristina Pratt. She is the eldest child of Mama Ngina and Jomo Kenyatta, Kenya’s first president. Kristina Pratt has been involved in various charitable activities and has served as an advocate for people with disabilities in Kenya.

4. How much is Mama Ngina Kenyatta net worth?

Mama Ngina Kenyatta’s net worth is estimated to be in the range of hundreds of millions to over a billion dollars. This wealth comes from extensive land holdings, significant stakes in major businesses like Brookside Dairy and NCBA Bank, investments in real estate, and other sectors. But exact figures are not publicly disclosed, so the estimates can vary.

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