Johnson Sakaja, born on February 2, 1985, in Parklands, Nairobi, Kenya, is a prominent Kenyan political figure and the current governor of Nairobi. A member of the Sabaot sub-tribe of the Kalenjin community, Sakaja has carved a remarkable path in Kenyan politics, showcasing leadership and resilience.
Early Life
Johnson Sakaja, now 38, was born in the then-government quarters in Parklands, Nairobi. Hailing from the Sabaot sub-tribe of the Kalenjin community, Sakaja celebrates his birthday every year on February 2nd.
Johnson Sakaja Family
Sakaja’s parents, Mr. John G Sakaja and the late Emily Ayoti Kubasu, met at a sports event where his mother was a participant. His mother, an accomplished athlete in the 1960s and 70s, won numerous medals in short-distance races and was the East African champion in the 200m race in 1971. Sakaja is the thirdborn and lastborn in his family, with two elder sisters.
Johnson Sakaja Education
Sakaja attended Aga Khan Nursery and Primary School before pursuing his secondary studies at Lenana School in 1999. Despite facing financial challenges preventing him from attending Harvard, he enrolled in the University of Nairobi, where he studied Actuarial Science.
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He demonstrated leadership as vice chairman of the legal society and coordinator of the prefects during his university years.
Johnson Sakaja Career
After graduation, Sakaja began his career at Price Waterhouse Coopers (PWC) at the age of 19 but lost his job a year later. Undeterred, he explored various opportunities, including working at a cybercafé owned by his aunt. He also tried his hand at music. In his fourth year of college, he founded Arthur Johnson Consultants, a financial consulting company that remains operational.
Political Journey
Sakaja’s political journey began in college, where he served as vice chair of the Actuarial Students Association and later led the Nairobi University student organization (SONU). He played a crucial role in rallying young people during the 2005 Referendum and joined the Kibaki campaign in 2007, eventually becoming director of the Vijana na Kibaki lobby organization.
At 26, Sakaja co-founded The National Alliance (TNA) and served as its chairman, playing a significant role in President Uhuru Kenyatta’s 2012–2013 victory. He later became the youngest leader of a major political party globally. Sakaja joined the Jubilee Party in 2016, serving as the designated member of the Senate.
Nairobi Governorship
Elected as Nairobi’s senator in 2017, Sakaja has been a dedicated public servant, representing the county. He currently serves as Nairobi’s governor, leading with vision and commitment.
Johnson Sakaja Net Worth
With a net worth estimated at $3.1 million, Sakaja, besides his role as a senator, is a savvy businessman. He owns and operates Arthur Johnson Consultants, a successful consultancy firm.