Francis Atwoli: Salary Per Month, Age, Net Worth, Wives, Biography & More

Francis Atwoli is no stranger to headlines in Kenya. As the long-serving Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU), Atwoli is known for his fiery speeches, unapologetic views, and high-profile lifestyle. Beyond the public drama and political commentary, many are curious about the man behind the mic — his salary, net worth, personal life, and how he’s maintained such a powerful presence in Kenya’s labor movement for decades. This article explores the fascinating life of Francis Atwoli — from his early days to his multimillion-shilling empire.

Quick Facts About Francis Atwoli

• Full Name: Francis Atwoli
• Date of Birth: June 6, 1949
• Age: 75 (as of 2025)
• Birthplace: Kakamega County, Kenya
• Nationality: Kenyan
• Occupation: Trade Unionist
• Current Position: Secretary General, Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU-K)
• Years Active: 1967–present

Francis Atwoli Age

Francis Atwoli, born on June 6, 1949, is currently 75 years old as of 2025.

Francis Atwoli Biography

Born in Kakamega County, western Kenya, Francis Atwoli embarked on his career in the labor force at the age of 19, joining the East African Posts and Telecommunications Corporation (EAP&TC). His dedication to workers' rights led him to the trade union movement in 1967, where he started as a shop steward and rose through the ranks to become a prominent figure in both national and international labor organizations.

Career & Positions Held

Francis Atwoli has been a stalwart in the labor movement for decades. He has served as the Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU-K) since 2001 and has been the General Secretary of the Kenya Plantation and Agricultural Workers Union (KPAWU) since 1994. His influence extends beyond Kenya, holding positions such as:

• Titular Member of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Governing Body
• President of the Organization of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU)
• Vice President of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC)

Under his leadership, COTU-K's membership has grown significantly, and he has been instrumental in advocating for workers' rights and social justice.

Awards & Honors

In recognition of his contributions to labor rights and social justice, Atwoli has received several national honors:

• Chief of the Burning Spear (CBS)
• Elder of the Burning Spear (EBS)
• Moran of the Burning Spear (MBS)

He was also conferred with an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters (Labour Relations) degree by Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology.

Francis Atwoli Salary Per Month

Francis Atwoli reportedly earns a monthly salary of Ksh10 million, a figure that surpasses the earnings of some top government officials.

Francis Atwoli Wives

Francis Atwoli is known to have three wives:

• Jenifer Khainza
• Mary Kilobi – A former KTN news anchor
• Third Wife – Details about his third wife are less publicized

He is a father to 18 children.

Francis Atwoli Net Worth

His net worth is estimated to be over Ksh700 million, accumulated through his long-standing career in the labor movement and various investments.

Why Francis Atwoli Is Making Headlines in 2025

Francis Atwoli has once again found himself at the center of public debate in 2025. From calling for sweeping social media reforms to defending his decades-long leadership at COTU—and even welcoming a new child—Kenya's most vocal trade unionist is proving he still knows how to command national attention. Here's why his name has been trending lately.

1. Call for Social Media Regulation

During the Labour Day celebrations on May 1, 2025, Atwoli urged President William Ruto to regulate social media in Kenya, citing China's approach as an example. He argued that such regulation would help curb "unpatriotic voices" and promote national stability. This statement ignited a significant backlash online, with critics accusing him of advocating for censorship and suppressing freedom of expression. The hashtag #HandsOffSocialMedia trended as many Kenyans expressed their opposition to his remarks.

2. Defense of His Tenure at COTU

Facing criticism over his long-standing leadership at the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU), Atwoli defended his record in a column published on May 11, 2025. He asserted that Kenyans often criticize leaders during their tenure but come to appreciate their contributions after they leave office. Atwoli highlighted his role in the adoption of progressive labor laws and the transformation of the labor movement in Kenya.

3. Personal Milestone: Birth of a Child

In early 2025, Atwoli and his wife, Mary Kilobi, welcomed their first child together, a son named Atwoli Junior (AJ). The news was met with widespread congratulations from the public and media, marking a joyful personal milestone for the couple.

Social Media

Francis Atwoli maintains an active presence on social media, where he shares updates on his work with COTU, political commentary, and personal reflections. His platforms serve as a window into his public engagements and viewpoints.

Official Social Media Accounts

• X (formerly Twitter): @AtwoliDza

Atwoli uses this platform to comment on national and labor issues, share updates from his travels, and engage with followers.

• Instagram: @dkt_francis_atwoli

His Instagram account features photos from official events, personal moments, and messages to the public.

• Facebook: Francis Atwoli Official

On Facebook, Atwoli shares videos, statements, and engages with a broader audience on various topics.

These platforms offer insights into Atwoli's activities and perspectives, reflecting his role as a prominent figure in Kenya's labor movement.

Conclusion

Francis Atwoli's journey from a humble beginning in Kakamega County to becoming a prominent trade unionist reflects his unwavering commitment to workers' rights and social justice. His leadership in COTU-K and various international labor organizations underscores his influence in shaping labor policies both in Kenya and across Africa.

Despite controversies surrounding his wealth and personal life, Atwoli remains a significant figure in the labor movement, advocating for the rights and welfare of workers.

Francis Atwoli: Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Francis Atwoli?

Francis Atwoli is a veteran Kenyan trade unionist and the long-serving Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU), a position he has held since 2001. He is also known for his vocal political views and influence on national labor policies.

How old is Francis Atwoli?

Francis Atwoli is 75 years old as of 2025. He was born on June 6, 1949.

What is Francis Atwoli’s net worth?

His net worth is estimated to be over Ksh700 million.

Who are Francis Atwoli’s wives?

Francis Atwoli is married to three women.

Why is Francis Atwoli trending in 2025?

Atwoli trended after calling for social media regulation in Kenya during Labour Day 2025, drawing comparisons to China’s model. The comments sparked backlash online, with many criticizing him for promoting censorship.

What is Francis Atwoli’s monthly salary?

Francis Atwoli reportedly earns a monthly salary of Ksh10 million.

Where is Francis Atwoli from?

Francis Atwoli hails from Khwisero in Kakamega County, Kenya.

What positions does Atwoli hold internationally?

He serves as the President of the Organization of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU) and as Vice President of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), as well as a member of the ILO Governing Body.

Is Francis Atwoli retiring soon?

As of 2025, Atwoli has hinted at retiring in 2032, coinciding with the end of President William Ruto’s second term.