Early Life and Education
Jimmy Richard Wanjigi was born on November 17, 1962, in Kenya. He came from a family with strong political ties. His father, Maina Wanjigi, was a Member of Parliament and a Cabinet Minister in Kenya’s early government. Jimmy grew up surrounded by politics.
He went to St. Mary’s School in Nairobi. There, he became friends with prominent people like Uhuru Kenyatta and Gideon Moi. After high school, Jimmy moved to the United States for college. He studied Business at the University of New York from 1982 to 1986 and earned a Bachelor’s degree.
Personal Life
Jimmy Wanjigi is married to Irene Nzisa. They have two children who go to a fancy school in Switzerland called Institut Le Rosey. Wanjigi lives a very luxurious life. He owns a private jet and a big, expensive house in Muthaiga.
Despite his wealth, Wanjigi has faced some legal problems. He has been accused of getting land illegally. He has also had other troubles with the authorities.
Business Career
Upon returning to Kenya in 1986, Wanjigi co-founded BINS Limited, the country’s first private garbage collection company. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish the Kwacha Group of Companies, a family office with diverse interests spanning agri-business, financial services, industrials, and real estate. Wanjigi is recognized as a serial entrepreneur who has amassed significant wealth and influence through his various business ventures.
Political Involvement
Wanjigi’s interest in politics began in 1992. This was when Kenya had its first election with multiple parties. He supported Kenneth Matiba, who was running for president. Over time, Wanjigi became close to other prominent politicians, like former Vice President George Saitoti.
In 2013, Wanjigi played a big role in politics. He helped bring together two political parties; Uhuru Kenyatta’s The National Alliance and William Ruto’s United Republican Party. This union formed the Jubilee Party.
But in 2017, things changed. Wanjigi switched sides and supported Raila Odinga in the elections. This made Kenyatta angry. As a result, the police raided Wanjigi’s home in Muthaiga. He was also charged with possesion of prohibited firearms, but the courts later dismissed these charges.
Political Ambitions
In mid-2021, Wanjigi announced he wanted to run for president. He tried to get the Orange Democratic Movement’s support for the 2022 election. This put him against Raila Odinga. Wanjigi said he wanted to change Kenya’s economy to help solve people’s problems. Later, he left ODM and joined the Safina Party to run for president.