Mwai Kibaki Net Worth: $50 Million
Category: Richest Politicians › Presidents
Profession: Politician, Economist
Nationality: Kenya
Birthdate: November 15, 1931 – April 21, 2022
Birthplace: Gatuyaini, Kenya Colony
Who Was Mwai Kibaki?
Mwai Kibaki was a renowned Kenyan economist and statesman who served as the third President of Kenya from 2002 to 2013. At the time of his death in 2022, his net worth was estimated at $50 million. He was widely credited for reviving Kenya’s economy and laying the foundation for infrastructural growth and political reforms in the 21st century.
Early Career and Academic Background
- Studied at Makerere University and later the London School of Economics.
- Taught economics at Makerere before joining politics.
- Began his political career in 1963 as a member of parliament for Donholm (later Othaya).
- Worked briefly with Shell East Africa and then became Executive Officer of KANU.
Government and Political Roles
Kibaki held various high-ranking positions across decades:
- Minister of Finance and Economic Planning (1970–1983)
- Vice President of Kenya under Daniel arap Moi (1978–1988)
- Minister of Health, Home Affairs, and Commerce and Industry
- Leader of Official Opposition (1998–2002)
- President of Kenya (2002–2013), elected under the National Rainbow Coalition (NARC)
He won the 2002 election by defeating Uhuru Kenyatta. His 2007 re-election was marred by allegations of electoral fraud, which triggered nationwide unrest. A power-sharing deal with Raila Odinga eventually stabilized the country.
Legacy and Economic Influence
Kibaki is remembered for:
- Spearheading Vision 2030, Kenya’s development blueprint.
- Major infrastructure projects, including roads, energy, and education.
- Achieving GDP growth and reducing Kenya’s dependence on foreign aid.
- Expanding free primary education nationwide.
- Enabling the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution, which decentralized governance.
Personal Life and Wealth
Mwai Kibaki maintained a low profile about his personal wealth, but his net worth was estimated at $50 million. His assets included:
- Large tracts of land
- Real estate investments
- Business interests, though less publicly known than those of some contemporaries
He was married to Lucy Kibaki, Kenya’s First Lady until her death in 2016. They had four children and several grandchildren.