As Kenya approaches the 2027 General Election, a new generation of female politicians is emerging, with some being mentioned as possible running mates to President William Ruto. These women, including governors and MPs, are commanding attention within their parties and across the national political landscape. However, the men they are married to rarely receive the same spotlight. This article profiles the husbands behind some of Kenya's most influential female politicians.
Gladys Wanga, a rising political powerhouse in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, is married to George Wanga. George has built his career in the public sector and was appointed non-executive chairperson of the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) in January 2025. However, his appointment was revoked ten months later, and he was subsequently appointed Managing Director of the Kenya Literature Bureau for a three-year term. The couple met at Kenyatta University and got married in 2005.
Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika is married to Sam Mburu, a close associate of President William Ruto. The couple met during the 2013 General Election campaign period and got married in 2020. Sam Mburu has built a business empire in hospitality, transport, and properties. He is also a distributor in Nakuru town's Shabab area. Mburu's business and political networks have become intertwined with Kihika's rapidly expanding political career.
Suba North Member of Parliament Millie Odhiambo is married to Mabona Magugu, a Zimbabwean national. Magugu has largely stayed away from Kenya's political spotlight but is a powerhouse in the hospitality industry and business circles. He is the Executive Director of Amaka Images, a company specializing in hotel and catering management. Magugu has also held various leadership roles, including as the Operations Deputy General Manager at The Victoria Falls Hotel.
Kawira Mwangaza, the former Meru governor, is married to Murega Baicu. Baicu is a singer, an apostle, a businessman, and Meru Cultural Ambassador. He has been walking with Mwangaza every step of the way, including during her stint as governor and her current alignment with the Linda Mwananchi Movement. Baicu enjoys the spotlight and has expressed himself both in song and in words.
Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru is married to Kamotho Waiganjo, a distinguished lawyer and expert in constitutional law. Waiganjo contributed to the implementation of Kenya's 2010 Constitution as a former commissioner of the defunct Commission for Implementation of the Constitution (CIC). The couple met in a ferry in Mombasa while on official duty, marking the beginning of their love story. Waiganjo has been by Waiguru's side through some of the most trying moments of her political career.
These men, though often out of the spotlight, play important roles in the lives and careers of their wives. As Kenya's female politicians continue to shape the country's politics, their husbands remain a vital part of their personal and professional lives. With the 2027 election approaching, these women and their husbands will likely face increased scrutiny and attention.
Key points
- George Wanga, husband of Gladys Wanga, was appointed Managing Director of the Kenya Literature Bureau for a three-year term.
- Sam Mburu, husband of Susan Kihika, has built a business empire in hospitality, transport, and properties.
- Kamotho Waiganjo, husband of Anne Waiguru, is a distinguished lawyer and expert in constitutional law.
