Nyandarua County, a region of captivating natural beauty and abundant potential, holds a unique place in the heart of Kenya. Its diligent potato farmers work tirelessly to ensure the nation’s food security, while the majestic Aberdare Ranges turn it into a sought-after tourist destination. This county also enjoys a reputation for having one of the coolest climates in the country.
Beyond its scenic wonders, Nyandarua County has proudly produced an impressive array of remarkable individuals who have left their indelible mark in various fields. In this article, we delve into the lives of six renowned sons and daughters of Nyandarua County:
Muthoni Wa Kirumba
Gladys Muthoni, popularly known as Muthoni Wa Kirumba or Baby Tops, has earned her place as one of the most celebrated Kikuyu Radio Presenters in Kenya. She graces the airwaves with the Canjamuka show at Kememe FM from 10 AM to 1 PM, often accompanied by comedian Mugaka. Before her time at Kememe FM, Muthoni served as a presenter at Bahasha FM, a station owned by the former MP, John Mututho. Her prominence is further boosted by her father’s political connections, as he is known for his close alliance with former Trade CS Moses Kuria. Muthoni hails from the Machinery area of Kipipiri constituency.
J Mburu
James Mburu, affectionately known as Mtaalam J Mburu, is a highly gifted media personality with a remarkable portfolio. Hailing from Karangatha, Nyandarua County, Mburu has left an indelible mark as the founder and owner of Jambu TV, Jambu Radio, Mukeu TV, Karindi TV, and Mukeu Spring Water. Additionally, he boasts a chain of clinics under the banner of Mukeu Herbal Clinics, with over 50 branches scattered across Kenya and Tanzania. In a truly inspiring journey, Mburu has risen from being a humble shamba boy earning a meager Ksh 20 per month to becoming one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the nation.
Amos Kimunya
Amos Muhinga Kimunya is a prominent and outspoken figure in Kenyan politics. He served as the Majority Leader of the National Assembly under the Jubilee Party from 2020 to 2022. Kimunya’s political journey includes stints as Kenya’s Minister of Trade and, notably, as the Minister of Finance during President Kibaki’s government from 2006 to July 2008, prior to his resignation amidst the Grand Regency Hotel Scandal. Previously, he had served as the Minister for Lands and Settlement. Kimunya attended Njabini Boys High School before joining the University of Nairobi and served as Kipipiri Member of Parliament for at least two non-consecutive terms before being ousted in 2022 by Wanjiku Muhia.
Paul Waiganjo
Paul Waiganjo stands out as one of the most celebrated gospel musicians in central Kenya. Born in Ngorika village, Nyandarua County, he is the youngest of nine siblings. Waiganjo attended Nyandarua High School for his secondary education but was later expelled for his involvement in a strike. His passion for sports led him to the prestigious Benhouse School in Nakuru, where he completed his KCSE before furthering his education at Egerton University, pursuing a diploma in Computer Engineering. The “Wi Ngai Mahinda Mothe” hitmaker also manages a real estate company along Thika Road.
Bishop JJ Gitahi
JJ Gitahi is undoubtedly one of the most dynamic Kikuyu preachers of all time. He is the proprietor of Githima TV, Topaz Driving School, and a real estate company. His children have also achieved notable success, with one of them being a renowned lawyer and the other a European footballer. Born as Jesse Gitahi Maina in Olkalou, Nyandarua County, JJ Gitahi, the ninth child in a family of 11 siblings, attended Kaibaga primary school before dropping out due to a lack of school fees. His remarkable journey from a Class 8 dropout to one of the wealthiest gospel ministers in Kenya has been well-documented.
Catherine Ndereba
Catherine Nyambura Ndereba stands as a legendary marathon runner who enjoyed unprecedented success in the early 2000s. Her illustrious career includes two gold medals in Athletics World Championships and silver medals at the 2004 and 2008 Summer Olympic Games. Ndereba’s achievements also encompass four victories at the Boston Marathon and two at the Chicago Marathon. In 2008, she was hailed as the greatest women’s marathoner of all time by the Chicago Tribune’s sportswriter Philip Hersh.
Nyandarua County, with its stunning landscapes and talented sons and daughters, continues to shine brightly in Kenya’s cultural, political, and sporting arenas.
