: Discover Martha Karua’s memoir, Against the Tide, as she reflects on her
political career, struggles, and triumphs in Kenya’s fight for justice and
leadership.

Martha Wangari Karua, born on September 22, 1957, in Kirinyaga District, launched her
memoir, Against The Tide, on Sunday, November 17, 2024.

This memoir, the culmination of nine years of writing, offers an insightful and personal
look into Karua’s remarkable journey as a lawyer, activist, and politician.
Known for her staunch advocacy for justice, tireless efforts against corruption, and bold
leadership, Karua has become one of Kenya’s most respected political figures.

“Writing this book has been a labour of love; the love I have for my country
and its people, the struggles I have endured, and the unwavering
commitment to building a better Kenya,” Karua shared at the launch,
reflecting on the challenges and triumphs that have defined her career.

A Curious Childhood and Early Inspirations

Growing up in Kimunye village, Karua’s inquisitiveness often led her to challenge the
status quo. Despite being a source of concern for her parents—both teachers—her
curiosity became the foundation of her intellectual pursuits.

“My close family had been supportive and patient, my dad and teachers
exhibited patience with me,” Karua recalls.
Her father, a prominent figure in her early life, sparked Karua’s interest in law,
particularly after she accompanied him to court as a child and became fascinated by the
respect magistrates commanded.

“When I was in primary school, I accompanied my dad to court on a traffic
matter. We had gone to Kerugoya, then we passed by the court. I liked the
attention the magistrate was getting, and upcountry they were being called
‘Judge,’” she explains.

Karua’s education at Nairobi Girls’ School fostered her independence, where she was
encouraged to express her opinions freely—a crucial factor in the development of her
leadership qualities.

Political Awakening

Karua’s political activism began within the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), where she and
other members challenged government excesses. This marked the beginning of her
deep commitment to national change.

“I realised that just as I had in the law society activism, it’s not enough to
complain about what is not being done.
It’s also important to get there and do what you think should be done. I was
seeking to be a part of the solution,” she explained.

Her decision to join active politics in 1992 led to her election as the Member of
Parliament (MP) for Gichugu, a position she held for four terms.

This transition marked her rise to national prominence, where she became renowned
for her principles, adherence to the rule of law and advocacy for women’s rights. Over
time, her steadfast nature earned her the nickname “The Iron Lady.”

From Law School to Legal Practice

Karua’s passion for law drove her to the University of Nairobi, where she earned her law
degree in 1980 and was admitted to the bar in 1982.

At just 24 years old, she began her career as a magistrate. However, financial
constraints led her to private practice in 1987, where she grew her firm, Martha Karua &
Co. Advocates, and advocated for human rights during Kenya’s politically turbulent
years under President Daniel arap Moi.

“When I entered the judiciary as a magistrate, I was earning Sh3,000. When
I got a family, the salary was not good enough,” Karua explains.
Her work in public service and private practice led to her being conferred Senior
Counsel 38 years later, following a career marked by significant legal accomplishments.

A Pivotal Role in the 2007 Election Crisis

In her memoir, Karua recounts the dramatic aftermath of the 2007 elections, when the
Electoral Commission of Kenya declared Mwai Kibaki the winner amid accusations of
fraud.

Despite widespread protests from the opposition, led by Raila Odinga, Karua took
immediate action to ensure Kibaki was sworn in.

The swearing-in ceremony, held on December 30, 2007, took place at State House,
Nairobi, despite the chaotic situation.

“The swearing-in had to be done immediately. Kibaki was declared the winner, and
according to the Inter-Parties Parliamentary Group (IPPG) amendment, the President
was to be sworn in as soon as he was declared,” Karua explained.

The action was necessary, she asserted, to maintain order during a tense political
period.
“How else could the swearing-in have been conducted? It was vital to swear
him in immediately,” she added.

Despite the political turmoil, Karua stands by her decision:
“I did what was right, and I stand by that decision. Even tomorrow, I will do
what is right. I have no regrets about the role I played as Kibaki’s agent and
the vote I cast for him,” she said.

However, the aftermath of the election saw post-election violence, which led to tribal
clashes, destruction, and loss of life. Karua expressed regret for the violence that
followed:
“We regret the loss of life, the destruction of property, and the displacement
of people. We also regret our failure as leaders, which could have led the
country into an abyss.”

Lessons from Leadership and Regrets

In her memoir, Karua reflects candidly on her political journey, including her decision to
run for president in 2012, which she now considers a misstep.

“The people of Gichugu elected me. I believe if I had gone for the
parliamentary seat instead of the presidency in 2012 or any local seat, I
would still be elected. I had bitten more than I could chew,” she admits.

Despite the loss, Karua stands firm in her principled approach to politics, particularly
during the constitutional review under President Mwai Kibaki’s administration.

“The issue of refusing to anchor the agreement in the Constitution was
pivotal. Kibaki wanted to accommodate Raila and his group in government
but still retain the ability to appoint and fire just like before. However, Raila and his group, having been fired in 2005, wanted it enshrined in the Constitution,” she explains.

A Legacy of Resilience

Karua’s story is not just one of triumph, but also resilience in the face of adversity,
including losses and betrayals. Reflecting on her journey, she writes:

“Thirty-eight years later, I was conferred to the rank of Senior Counsel
following an illustrious career in public service and private practice,
successfully arguing cases that have set legal precedence. It has not been
easy. I have faced each tide that has come my way and overcome.”

Against The Tide: A Testament of Courage

This memoir, which took nearly a decade to complete, stands as a testament to Karua’s
unwavering resolve to confront challenges head-on.

For anyone seeking inspiration from one of Kenya’s most iconic leaders, Against The
Tide offers a story of resilience, leadership, and the relentless pursuit of justice.
“Against The Tide is about overcoming adversity. It’s about resilience,”
Karua declared.

: Fred Matiang’i partners with Dickens & Madson for $250K to boost his 2027
presidential campaign, focusing on lobbying and strategic global support.

Former Kenyan Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has taken a bold step toward the 2027 presidential race by hiring Canadian lobbying firm Dickens & Madson. The firm, led by
controversial political consultant Ari Ben-Menashe, signed an agreement with Matiang’i on July 13, 2024. The deal reportedly involves a $250,000 (about KSh 32 million) fee, covering services designed to build international support for Matiang’i’s political ambitions over the coming years​.

Scope of Services

Dickens & Madson is tasked with lobbying influential governments, including the U.S., U.K., and Japan, and international organisations to align them with Matiang’i’s bid. Their deliverables also include formulating strategies to enhance his political campaign and improve his global image.

This approach mirrors the firm’s previous engagements, where they used diplomatic channels to influence policies and secure favourable positions for their clients​.

Previous Work

The firm is no stranger to high-profile and often controversial political campaigns. It has worked with Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa to promote land deals and improve Zimbabwe’s international standing. Dickens & Madson’s client portfolio also includes various governments and individuals facing sanctions or international scrutiny, highlighting their reputation for navigating complex geopolitical terrains.

Implications for 2027

Matiang’i’s decision to engage a firm with such a record underscores his intention to leverage
international networks to counter President William Ruto’s administration.

While the move signals strategic ambition, it also invites scrutiny, given the firm’s controversial history and the polarised perception of Matiang’i’s leadership legacy This development sets the stage for a high-stakes election, as Matiang’i aims to position himself as a credible alternative to Ruto, drawing on both local and international support to bolster his campaign.

: Discover the wealth and business ventures of Sub-Saharan Africa’s top 10
richest politicians in 2024, including details on their net worth and sources of
wealth.

Here’s the refined and ranked list of the richest politicians in Sub-Saharan Africa for
2024, starting with the wealthiest:

1–King Mohammed VI (Morocco)

–Net worth: $1.9 billion
-Sources of Wealth: Royal investments across various sectors, including real estate, banking, and mining.

King Mohammed VI of Morocco: A Visionary Leader Shaping Morocco’s Future
King Mohammed VI, who ascended to the throne in 1999, has been a
transformative figure in Morocco’s modern history.

Under his leadership, Morocco has seen remarkable political, economic, and social reforms. His vision of modernisation, epitomised by the 2011 constitutional reforms, aimed to
strengthen democratic institutions and address the demands of the people.

King Mohammed VI has spearheaded ambitious projects, such as the development of
large-scale infrastructure, renewable energy initiatives, and the promotion of
Morocco as a regional economic hub.

His progressive approach continues to foster growth, stability, and Morocco’s growing influence on the African continent and beyond.

2- Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo (Equatorial Guinea)

-Net worth: $600 million to $1 billion
-Sources of Wealth: Oil and gas industry, with significant control over the
country’s resources​.

Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo: Africa’s Longest-Serving Leader Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, who has ruled Equatorial Guinea since 1979, is Africa’s longest-serving president. Coming to power after a military coup that ousted his uncle, Obiang’s tenure has been marked by significant oil wealth but also by criticisms of human rights abuses and political repression. While his regime has overseen.

economic growth fueled by oil exports, much of the wealth has remained concentrated
in the hands of the elite, with widespread poverty persisting. Despite facing international
scrutiny, Obiang has remained a key figure in Central African politics, navigating
relations with both Western powers and regional neighbours.

His leadership continues to shape the future of Equatorial Guinea, balancing development ambitions with ongoing calls for democratic reforms.

3–Yoweri Museveni (Uganda)

-Net worth: $1 billion
-Sources of Wealth: Diversified investments in agriculture, real estate, and
Uganda’s emerging oil industry​.

Yoweri Museveni: A Pillar of Ugandan Politics for Over Three Decades
Yoweri Museveni, Uganda’s president since 1986, has been a dominant figure in the
country’s political landscape for over three decades.

Rising to power after leading a successful guerrilla war, Museveni promised to bring stability and economic growth to a nation that had been ravaged by dictatorship and civil conflict. Under his leadership, Uganda has experienced notable economic progress, particularly in agriculture and infrastructure.

However, his extended rule has also drawn criticism for democratic backsliding, with concerns over electoral fairness, media freedom, and human rights.

Despite calls for reform, Museveni remains a key player in East African geopolitics,
maintaining a strong influence on regional security and economic cooperation.

4- Ali Bongo Ondimba (Gabon)

-Net worth: $1 billion
-Sources of Wealth: Oil and state-controlled business ventures in Gabon​.

Ali Bongo Ondimba: A Legacy of Leadership in Gabon Ali Bongo Ondimba, who served as president of Gabon from 2009 until his recent ousting in 2023, inherited leadership from his father, Omar Bongo, who ruled for over 40 years.

Ali Bongo’s presidency was marked by efforts to modernize the country’s
infrastructure, diversify its economy beyond oil, and implement social reforms. However,
his tenure was also characterized by growing concerns over political opposition
suppression, allegations of electoral fraud, and challenges to democratic governance.

Despite these controversies, Bongo remained a prominent figure in African politics, with a focus on regional cooperation and Gabon’s role in the international arena. His sudden
removal in a military coup has left a significant mark on Gabon’s future direction.

5-Orji Uzor Kalu (Nigeria)

Net worth: $1.1 billion
Sources of Wealth: Oil, banking, media, and real estate.

​Orji Uzor Kalu: A Prominent Nigerian Politician and Business Mogul Orji Uzor Kalu, a key figure in Nigerian politics and business, has played a significant role in shaping the country’s political and economic landscape.

As the former governor of Abia State from 1999 to 2007, Kalu was known for his ambitious infrastructure projects and efforts to promote local industry. Beyond politics, he is a successful
businessman with interests spanning media, shipping, and manufacturing.

A member of Nigeria’s Senate since 2019, Kalu remains a powerful figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC), influencing national policy. Despite facing legal challenges in the past, including a corruption conviction that was later overturned, his influence continues to shape Nigeria’s political discourse.

6 -Cyril Ramaphosa (South Africa)

-Net worth: $450 million to $550 million
-Sources of Wealth: Mining, agriculture, and real estate, including his stake in
South Africa’s mining industry​

Cyril Ramaphosa: Leading South Africa Through Challenges and Change Cyril Ramaphosa, South Africa’s president since 2018, has steered the country through a period of significant economic and political challenges.

Known for his role in the anti- apartheid struggle and as a key negotiator during the transition to democracy, Ramaphosa’s presidency has focused on tackling corruption, revitalising the economy, and addressing issues like unemployment and inequality.

Under his leadership, South Africa has also taken bold steps toward energy reform, including efforts to address the nation’s power crisis. Ramaphosa continues to be a central figure in the fight for a more inclusive and prosperous South Africa, despite facing both progress and setbacks during his tenure.

7—Uhuru Kenyatta (Kenya)

Net worth: $500 million to $650 million
Sources of Wealth: Family businesses in agriculture, banking (Brookside Dairy,
Commercial Bank of Africa), and real estate. ​

Uhuru Kenyatta: A Legacy of Leadership and Transformation in Kenya
Uhuru Kenyatta, Kenya’s president from 2013 to 2022, played a pivotal role in shaping
the nation’s political and economic landscape.

As the son of Kenya’s first president, Jomo Kenyatta, he navigated his leadership with a focus on infrastructure development, economic growth, and regional influence. During his two terms, Kenyatta spearheaded initiatives such as the Big Four Agenda, aimed at enhancing affordable housing, universal healthcare, manufacturing, and food security.

He also championed Kenya’s role in regional diplomacy and continental integration. Despite facing challenges, including the aftermath of political divisions and corruption scandals, Kenyatta remains a key figure in Kenya’s modern history, influencing both national and regional development.

8—Rochas Okorocha (Nigeria)

-Net worth: $1 billion
-Sources of Wealth: Education, media, real estate, and oil.

​
Rochas Okorocha: A Visionary Politician and Philanthropist in Nigeria Rochas Okorocha, former governor of Imo State, Nigeria, has made his mark as both a politician and philanthropist. Serving from 2011 to 2019, Okorocha focused on large-
scale infrastructure projects, educational reforms, and poverty alleviation, earning a
reputation for ambitious development plans.

Known for his larger-than-life personality and controversial policies, he also established numerous schools and institutions through his philanthropic work. A member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Okorocha remains a key figure in Nigerian politics, continuing to influence both his state and national political discourse.

Despite facing challenges, including allegations of corruption, his legacy of public service and ambition shapes his ongoing political career.

9—Mohammed Indimi (Nigeria)

-Net worth: $1 billion. -Sources of Wealth: Oil and gas through his company, Oriental Energy Resources​

Mohammed Indimi: A Nigerian Oil Tycoon and Business Mogul Mohammed Indimi is a prominent Nigerian businessman and one of the country’s wealthiest individuals, best known for his successful ventures in the oil and gas sector.

As the founder of the Oriental Energy Resources, Indimi has played a key role in
Nigeria’s oil industry, with a focus on exploration and production in the Niger Delta.
Beyond oil, he has diversified his interests into real estate, banking, and agriculture.

A philanthropist, Indimi is also recognised for his charitable work, particularly in education
and healthcare, through the Mohammed Indimi Foundation. His influence extends
across both business and political spheres, making him a significant figure in Nigeria’s
economic landscape.

10—Alassane Ouattara (Ivory Coast)

-Net worth: $500 million
-Sources of Wealth: Banking and finance, with substantial fortune accumulated in
the banking sector​.

Alassane Ouattara: Steering Ivory Coast Towards Stability and Growth Alassane Ouattara, the president of Ivory Coast since 2011, has been a central figure in the country’s post-crisis recovery and economic transformation.

Taking office after a period of political unrest, Ouattara’s leadership has focused on restoring stability, attracting foreign investment, and driving economic growth. Under his administration, Ivory Coast has seen significant infrastructure development, a boost in agricultural exports, and improvements in education and healthcare.

Despite challenges, including political opposition and regional security concerns, Ouattara’s commitment to economic reform and national unity has solidified his position as a key leader in West Africa.

His tenure continues to shape the future trajectory of Ivory Coast, positioning the country as
a rising power on the African continent.

This ranking is based on a combination of publicly available data, business interests,
and political roles. These leaders have significantly diversified their wealth into
industries like oil, mining, real estate, and finance, often leveraging their political
influence for business growth.