David Wafula Wakoli, born in June 1983, is a Kenyan politician and educator currently serving as the Senator for Bungoma County. He was elected on December 8, 2022, under the Ford Kenya Party, succeeding Moses Wetang’ula, who resigned to become Speaker of the National Assembly.
Wakoli began his early education at St. Peter Mumias Primary School, where he developed a strong academic foundation. He later attended Musingu High School in Kakamega County, an institution known for nurturing academic excellence and leadership among its students.
He pursued higher education at Egerton University, earning a Bachelor of Education degree, which equipped him with skills in teaching, management, and community service—qualities that would later define his political approach.
Professional Career
Before venturing into politics, Wafula Wakoli built a solid career in education. In 2011, he was employed by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and posted to Friends Milima Secondary School in Tongaren, Bungoma County. He served there until around 2013, where he became known for his discipline and commitment to mentorship.
After leaving his TSC posting, Wakoli continued to teach under the Board of Management at both Bungoma High School and Baptist Secondary School. His years in the education sector shaped his leadership style and passion for youth empowerment.
Wakoli later transitioned into politics, taking on the role of Manager and Personal Assistant to Moses Wetang’ula, a seasoned politician and the leader of Ford Kenya. For over ten years, he served in this capacity, honing his administrative and political strategy skills. His loyalty, organizational abilities, and grassroots connection positioned him as a natural successor to Wetang’ula’s senatorial seat.
Political Career
Wafula Wakoli’s political breakthrough came in 2022 when the Bungoma senatorial seat fell vacant following Wetang’ula’s election as National Assembly Speaker. Running under the Ford Kenya ticket, Wakoli campaigned on a platform of education reform, youth empowerment, and service delivery.
In the December 8, 2022 by-election, he secured 66,032 votes, defeating his closest rival Mwambu Mabonga of UDA, who garnered 45,907 votes. His victory was widely celebrated across Bungoma as a sign of continuity within the Ford Kenya leadership and a win for grassroots politics.
As senator, Wakoli represents Bungoma County in the Kenyan Senate, where he contributes to legislation, oversight, and development advocacy. He serves on committees related to education, public investments, and county governance, emphasizing the importance of accountability, equitable resource allocation, and improved access to education for rural communities.
Leadership and Vision
Senator Wafula Wakoli is known for his humility, accessibility, and pro-people leadership style. Drawing from his teaching background, he advocates for better working conditions for educators and improved infrastructure in public schools. His philosophy is rooted in empowering youth through education and job creation.
Wakoli has also emerged as a vocal representative of Western Kenya, championing regional unity, development, and fair distribution of national resources. His close working relationship with senior leaders like Moses Wetang’ula continues to influence his political direction within the Kenya Kwanza coalition.
Family and Net Worth
Although Wafula Wakoli keeps his family life private, he is known to be family-oriented and active in community programs across Bungoma. His leadership remains grounded in values of service, mentorship, and honesty.
While his exact net worth is not publicly disclosed, as a sitting senator, he earns a gross monthly salary of approximately Ksh 739,600, which includes:
- Basic Salary: Ksh 443,760
- House Allowance: Ksh 150,000
- Salary Market Adjustment: Ksh 145,840
His benefits as a legislator include:
- Medical Cover: Up to Ksh 10 million annually (inpatient), Ksh 300,000 (outpatient)
- Car Maintenance Allowance: Ksh 356,525 per month
- Committee Sitting Allowances: Up to Ksh 240,000 for chairpersons, Ksh 192,000 for vice chairpersons, and Ksh 120,000 for members
- Car Reimbursement: One-time Ksh 7.55 million per parliamentary term
- Group Life Insurance and Personal Accident Cover
Through dedication and grassroots connection, Senator Wafula Wakoli has become a symbol of upward mobility from education to leadership — representing Bungoma with integrity, experience, and a teacher’s heart for public service.
