Abdulkadir Mohamed Haji, popularly known as Abdul Haji, is a Kenyan politician, businessman, and humanitarian, currently serving as the Senator for Garissa County. A member of the Jubilee Party, he is widely respected for his bravery during the 2013 Westgate Mall terror attack and his dedication to public service.
Early Life and Education
Abdul Haji was born in 1979 into one of Kenya’s most prominent political families. He is the son of the late Mohamed Yusuf Haji, a former Minister of Defence, longtime Garissa Senator, and a respected elder in the Somali community. Growing up under his father’s mentorship, Abdul developed a strong sense of duty, leadership, and compassion.
He attended Moi High School, where he completed his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) in 1993. Afterward, he joined the University of Bradford in the United Kingdom, where he graduated in 2000 with a Bachelor of Science in Business and Management Studies.
Continuing his academic pursuits, he later obtained a Master of Business Administration (Global MBA) from the United States International University (USIU-Africa) in 2011, equipping him with advanced management and leadership skills.
Career Background
Before joining politics, Abdul Haji had an accomplished career in business and media entrepreneurship.
He is the Managing Director of Radio Salaam, a popular media outlet that serves Kenya’s Muslim population with faith-based programming and social awareness content. Through this platform, Haji promoted education, peace, and community empowerment.
He also founded Masala Communication, a Safaricom dealership network, and co-founded Colchester Investments Limited, a real estate and property management firm. Additionally, he sits on the Board of the Abu Huraira Group of Schools, underscoring his long-term commitment to expanding access to education in northern Kenya.
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Heroic Act During Westgate Attack
Abdul Haji became a national hero in September 2013 during the Westgate Mall terrorist attack in Nairobi. When heavily armed terrorists attacked the shopping complex, Abdul — armed only with a pistol — rushed to the scene to rescue civilians.
He coordinated with security forces and civilians, helping evacuate dozens of trapped hostages, including children. Among those he helped rescue was his brother, Noordin Haji, now Kenya’s Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). His courage earned him national and international recognition, portraying him as a symbol of bravery and patriotism.
Political Career
Following the death of his father, Senator Yusuf Haji, in 2021, Abdul entered politics to continue his father’s legacy of service. He was endorsed unopposed for the Garissa County Senate seat during the April 2021 by-election on a Jubilee Party ticket.
He was sworn in later that year and re-elected in the 2022 General Election, where he retained his seat with a significant majority, solidifying his political influence in northern Kenya.
In the Senate, Senator Abdul Haji serves on several key committees, including those overseeing national security, environment and land, and the Shakahola tragedy investigation. He is also a member of the Speaker’s Panel, which assists in presiding over House proceedings. Previously, he served as Vice-Chairperson of the Energy Committee and as a member of the Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations Committee.
Through his legislative work, Haji has been a strong advocate for peacebuilding, security sector reforms, and economic empowerment in marginalized regions. He also champions youth employment programs and policies that promote investment in Kenya’s pastoralist areas.
Family Life
Abdul Haji comes from the respected Haji family, which has produced influential public servants. His brother, Noordin Haji, is Kenya’s Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and former National Intelligence Service (NIS) officer.
Abdul is a devout Muslim, husband, and father. He remains deeply connected to his Garissa roots, often engaging in community projects focused on education, health, and interfaith harmony.
Net Worth
Abdul Haji’s net worth is not publicly known. However, his combined roles in business, real estate, and politics contribute to his financial standing.
As a Kenyan Senator, he earns an estimated gross monthly salary of Ksh739,600, comprising:
- Basic Salary: Ksh443,760
- House Allowance: Ksh150,000
- Salary Market Adjustment: Ksh145,840
In addition, he receives various benefits and allowances, including:
- Car Maintenance Allowance: Ksh356,525 per month
- Committee Sitting Allowances:
- Chairperson: Up to Ksh240,000
- Vice Chairperson: Up to Ksh192,000
- Member: Up to Ksh120,000
- Car Reimbursement: One-time Ksh7.55 million per parliamentary term
- Medical Cover (Annual):
- Inpatient: Ksh10 million
- Outpatient: Ksh300,000
- Maternity: Ksh150,000
- Dental: Ksh100,000
- Optical: Ksh100,000
- Group Life Insurance: Equivalent to three times annual pensionable salary
- Airtime Allowance: Up to Ksh20,000 per month
Senator Abdul Haji embodies a unique blend of bravery, leadership, and service, following in his father’s footsteps while charting his own path as a visionary leader in Kenya’s Senate. His life story — from the Westgate heroics to national leadership — continues to inspire both the young and the old across Kenya.
