On June 24, 1933, Ngina Muhoho was born in Ngenda, Kiambu, Kenya. Today, she turns 92, embodying resilience, dignity, and a legacy that spans Kenya’s independence to modern nationhood.
👶 From Kiambu to National Prominence
Born the daughter of Chief Muhoho wa Gathecha, Ngina came from a lineage of leadership. Married at just 18 to Jomo Kenyatta in 1951, she became the matriarch of a family whose influence would shape Kenya’s destiny todayafrica.co+2en.wikipedia.org+2sectors.kenyayearbook.go.ke+2.
🕊️ Imprisonment and Quiet Heroism
In the late 1950s, while her husband was jailed, Ngina endured a five-year sentence at Kamiti Maximum Prison, condemned by the British for her association with the Mau Mau movement. Even behind bars, she cared for fellow detainees’ children—a testament to her compassion and courage tuko.co.ke+1support.ecitizen.go.ke+1:
“She had more than 50 children under her care... rocking two more with her hands.” tuko.co.ke
🇰🇪 First Lady and "Mama wa Taifa"
After independence, Ngina became Kenya’s inaugural First Lady in 1964, earning the revered title "Mama wa Taifa" (Mother of the Nation). A devoted Roman Catholic, she championed community programs and held the role of patron of the Girl Guides since 1965.
💼 Legacy—Family, Philanthropy & Enterprise
Her marriage to Jomo produced four children—including future President Uhuru Kenyatta . After 1978, she stepped back politically but remained a guiding force through family-run initiatives: orphanages, community health clinics, and educational institutions .
📈 Business Prowess & Wealth
Mama Ngina transformed into one of Kenya’s wealthiest women, overseeing holdings across agriculture, real estate, hospitality, media, dairy, and more . Reports estimate her net worth at approximately $3–5 billion, including 284,000 hectares of ranch and farm land and significant stakes in Brookside Dairy and NCBA Bank.
🗣️ Influence & Defender of Family Legacy
Though famously discreet, Mama Ngina has influenced politics: she brokered alliances during her son’s rise in 2013 and publicly defended the family amid controversies. She remains respected for her enduring presence and principled advocacy.
🏛️ 92 Years of Resilience and Grace
From her role in a colonial struggle, to serving as Kenya’s First Lady and matriarch of a political dynasty, Mbeka Ngina Kenyatta’s journey is a portrait of national memory—interwoven with courage, service, and entrepreneurship.