1. Introduction
- Brief overview of Uhuru Kenyatta as Kenya’s 4th President (2013–2022).
- His significance in shaping Kenya’s politics, economy, and diplomacy.
2. Early Life & Education
- Born October 26, 1961, son of Kenya’s founding President Jomo Kenyatta.
- Family background and Kikuyu heritage.
- Education: St. Mary’s School (Nairobi), Amherst College (USA).
- Early ventures in agriculture and business before politics.
3. Entry into Politics
- Involvement in KANU party in the 1990s.
- Nominated as Deputy Prime Minister & Finance Minister under President Kibaki.
- 2002: Backed by President Moi as a successor but lost to Mwai Kibaki.
- Rise in influence leading to the formation of The National Alliance (TNA).
4. Presidency (2013–2022)
First Term (2013–2017)
- Won the 2013 election with William Ruto as running mate under the Jubilee Alliance.
- Challenges: ICC cases (later dropped), infrastructure expansion (SGR railway), digital government initiatives.
Second Term (2017–2022)
- Re-elected in a controversial poll (initial annulment, then rerun boycotted by opposition).
- Focus on the Big Four Agenda:
- Affordable housing
- Universal healthcare
- Manufacturing
- Food security
- Major infrastructure projects: roads, ports, power projects.
- Political handshake with Raila Odinga (2018), calming tensions.
5. Role in Regional & Global Politics
- Mediator in South Sudan and regional peace talks.
- Strong ties with the US, China, and the East African Community (EAC).
- Balancing Kenya’s role between Western allies and Chinese investments.
6. Achievements
- Growth of infrastructure (SGR, roads, energy projects).
- Expansion of digital/mobile economy.
- Strengthening Kenya’s regional diplomacy.
- The “Handshake” as a model for political reconciliation.
7. Criticisms & Controversies
- Rising public debt and concerns over Chinese loans.
- Corruption scandals during his administration.
- Strained relationship with Deputy President (now President) William Ruto.
- High cost of living, unemployment issues.
8. Legacy & Life After Presidency
- Mixed legacy: praised for infrastructure, but criticized for debt and corruption.
- Influence in Kenyan politics through his role in the Azimio la Umoja coalition.
- Seen as a key elder statesman in regional mediation.
9. Conclusion
- Uhuru Kenyatta remains a pivotal figure in Kenya’s history.
- His presidency shaped the country’s economic growth, political stability, and regional influence—though challenges like debt and corruption leave a complicated legacy.
