Kenya's High Commissioner to Uganda, Ababu Namwamba, has given a rare glimpse into his upbringing and the financial moves that shaped his rise. He revealed that his parents struggled to put food on the table and that he started working at a law firm in his second year at university. This early start in his career helped him purchase his first car before finishing law school. Namwamba's background is a far cry from what many might assume about his polished public image.
Namwamba described watching his parents work tirelessly just to keep the family fed and in school, a memory that clearly left a deep impression. He misses them dearly now that both have passed on. According to him, he made his first million in his 20s and began working at a very young age. This early start and his philosophy of working hard, regardless of one's background, have contributed to his success. He uses the imagery of athletes at the starting blocks to explain that every person begins life from the same point, and it's one's dreams and hard work that set them apart.
The diplomat also shed light on the breadth of his current business interests, which include land, real estate, stocks, money market funds, a lakeside facility called Chase Bay, and stakes in the creative and entertainment industries. He stressed that spreading investments across different asset classes was not optional but necessary, given the unpredictability of any single market. This diversified portfolio has helped him navigate the ups and downs of the business world.
Namwamba's parting advice to young people was direct: "When you have an opportunity to make money, make money." He believes in taking advantage of every opportunity that comes one's way. His interview on the Young Millionaires Talk show drew mixed reactions online, with some people finding inspiration in his story and others questioning the relationship between politicians and success.
Despite the mixed reactions, many young people found Namwamba's story inspirational. Some expressed a desire to follow in his footsteps, with one person declaring he wanted to be rich before leaving campus. Others appreciated the insight into his personal life and financial decisions. The interview provided a unique perspective on what it takes to achieve success through hard work and smart investments.
Namwamba's story also highlights his philanthropic side. He recently helped reunite a 13-year-old girl, Beryl Akumu Juma, with her family after she was stranded in Kampala, Uganda. He also offered her a scholarship, showing that his success has not only benefited him but also others in need. This act of kindness has further endeared him to many Kenyans.
In conclusion, Ababu Namwamba's journey from a humble background to becoming a successful diplomat and businessman is a testament to the power of hard work and determination. His diversified investment portfolio and philanthropic efforts serve as an inspiration to many young people. As he continues to serve as Kenya's High Commissioner to Uganda, his story will undoubtedly motivate others to work towards their goals.
Key points
- Ababu Namwamba started working at a law firm in his second year at university and bought his first car before finishing law school.
- He has a diversified business portfolio that includes land, real estate, stocks, money market funds, and stakes in the creative and entertainment industries.
- Namwamba's advice to young people is to take advantage of every opportunity to make money and to diversify their investments.
