Anne Waiguru: Age, Husband, Biography, Career & More

Anne Waiguru is one of Kenya’s most recognizable female leaders—an economist by training, a reformer by reputation, and the current Governor of Kirinyaga County. With a career spanning public service, policy, and politics, she has navigated both praise and controversy with resilience. Off the podium, she is also a wife and mother, balancing leadership with a grounded personal life.

In this article, we explore her age, personal life, career milestones, and much more.

Quick Facts About Anne Waiguru

• Full Name: Anne Mumbi Waiguru
• Date of Birth: April 16, 1971
• Place of Birth: Nairobi, Kenya
• Education: Egerton University (BSc in Agriculture and Home Economics), University of Nairobi (MA in Economics)
• Political Party: United Democratic Alliance (UDA)
• Current Position: Governor of Kirinyaga County (since 2017)
• Previous Roles: Cabinet Secretary for Devolution and Planning (2013–2015)
• Spouse: Kamotho Waiganjo
• Children: Three sons
• Net Worth: Approximately Ksh. 80 million (as of 2018)

Anne Waiguru Age

Anne Waiguru was born on April 16, 1971, which makes her 54 years old as of 2025.

Anne Waiguru Biography

Born on April 16, 1971, at Pumwani Hospital in Nairobi, Anne Waiguru hails from Ngariama in Kirinyaga County. Her father served as a police officer, while her mother was a businesswoman. She grew up with two sisters and a brother.

Education

Waiguru began her education at Nairobi River Primary School, proceeded to Precious Blood Girls' Secondary School, Riruta, and later attended Moi Forces Academy in Nairobi for her A-Level studies. She earned a Bachelor's degree in Agriculture and Home Economics from Egerton University and later obtained a Master's degree in Economics from the University of Nairobi.

Career

Anne Waiguru's career in public service commenced with roles providing technical assistance to the Public Service Reform Secretariat in the Cabinet Office. She later served as the Head of Governance and the Economic Stimulus Programme at the National Treasury.

Her notable achievements include leading the implementation of the Integrated Financial Management and Information System (IFMIS) and pioneering the establishment of Huduma Centres, which streamlined access to government services across Kenya.

In 2013, President Uhuru Kenyatta appointed her as the first Cabinet Secretary for Devolution and Planning. During her tenure, she championed the 30% procurement rule, ensuring that a significant portion of government contracts were allocated to youth, women, and persons with disabilities.

However, her term was marred by the National Youth Service (NYS) scandal in 2015, involving the misappropriation of Ksh. 791 million. Waiguru denied involvement and resigned citing health reasons. She was initially cleared by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), though later statements from the EACC indicated procedural errors in the clearance process.

Political Career

Transitioning into elective politics, Waiguru joined the Jubilee Party and was elected as the Governor of Kirinyaga County in 2017. She was re-elected in 2022 under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party. Her administration has focused on initiatives like the "Wezesha Kirinyaga" program, aimed at empowering local farmers through value addition in poultry, dairy, avocado, and tomato farming.

Additionally, she has overseen the development of an industrial park and an apparel factory to boost local employment.

In 2022, Waiguru made history by becoming the first female Chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG) in Kenya, a position she held until October 2024.

Anne Waiguru Husband

Anne Waiguru is married to Kamotho Waiganjo, a lawyer and former Commissioner with the Commission for the Implementation of the Constitution. The couple formalized their union in a traditional ceremony in 2019.

Waiguru is a mother to three sons: Ian, Don, and Wabu. Her eldest son, Ian, is an entrepreneur and the founder of an IT company.

Anne Waiguru Net Worth

In a 2018 interview, Waiguru disclosed that her assets were valued at approximately Ksh. 160 million, with liabilities totaling Ksh. 80 million. She emphasized that her wealth was accumulated prior to her tenure in government and dismissed allegations linking her to corrupt practices.

The NYS Scandal: What Really Happened to Anne Waiguru?

In 2015, Anne Waiguru’s name became widely associated with the National Youth Service (NYS) scandal, one of Kenya’s most high-profile corruption cases. The scandal involved the alleged embezzlement of billions of shillings intended for youth empowerment programs, with funds reportedly misappropriated through inflated contracts and fraudulent payments.

As the Cabinet Secretary for Devolution and Planning at the time, Waiguru was accused by some parties of having oversight responsibility over the ministry linked to NYS funds. Her detractors argued that she should have prevented or uncovered the misuse. These allegations fueled intense public scrutiny, political attacks, and media speculation.

Waiguru, however, strongly denied any involvement in the wrongdoing. She insisted that she was neither involved in nor aware of the corrupt activities and welcomed investigations to clear her name. The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) probed the matter but never formally charged her. Nonetheless, the pressure from the scandal forced Waiguru to resign from her Cabinet position in December 2015.

Despite the controversy, Anne Waiguru managed to rebuild her political career. In 2017, she successfully contested and won the Kirinyaga gubernatorial seat, signaling a significant political comeback and public forgiveness among many voters.

The NYS scandal remains a defining episode in Waiguru’s public life—one that tested her resilience and shaped perceptions of her leadership for years to come.

Social Media Presence

Anne Waiguru maintains an active and strategic presence on major social media platforms, leveraging them to engage with the public, share updates on her work, and promote development initiatives in Kirinyaga County.

• Twitter (X): @AnneWaiguru

Governor Anne Waiguru has over 200,000 followers on X, where she shares insights on governance, national affairs, and her county's progress.

• Facebook: Anne Waiguru Official

Her Facebook page boasts over 375,000 likes and serves as a platform for official announcements, public engagements, and community outreach.

• Instagram: @anne_waiguru

With over 1,400 followers, her Instagram showcases a blend of professional achievements and personal moments, offering followers a glimpse into her life beyond politics.

Governor Waiguru's adept use of social media reflects her commitment to transparency and direct communication with the public.

Conclusion

Anne Waiguru remains one of Kenya’s most dynamic and resilient political figures. From her strong academic background and influential public service roles to her leadership as Governor of Kirinyaga County, she has continually demonstrated determination and vision.

Despite facing significant controversies, including the NYS scandal, Waiguru has managed to rebuild her reputation and maintain a significant presence in Kenyan politics. Her story reflects both the challenges and triumphs of leadership in a complex political landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is Anne Waiguru?

Anne Waiguru is a Kenyan politician currently serving as the Governor of Kirinyaga County. She made history in 2017 as one of Kenya’s first elected female governors under the 2010 constitution and was re-elected in 2022.

How old is Anne Waiguru?

Anne Waiguru was born on April 16, 1971, making her 54 years old as of 2025.

What is Anne Waiguru’s educational background?

Anne Waiguru holds a Bachelor's degree in Agriculture and Home Economics from Egerton University. She later pursued a Master's degree in Economic Policy at the University of Nairobi.

What is Anne Waiguru’s career history?

She began in public service, leading Kenya’s Local Government Reform Program and Public Service Board. In 2013, she became Kenya’s youngest Cabinet Secretary for Devolution and Planning before being elected Governor of Kirinyaga County in 2017.

Who is Anne Waiguru married to?

Anne Waiguru is married to Kamotho Waiganjo, a lawyer. They have been together for over a decade and have three children.

Does Anne Waiguru have children?

Yes, she has three sons: Ian, Don, and Wabu. Ian is an entrepreneur, and her children live with her in Nairobi.

What is Anne Waiguru’s net worth?

Anne Waiguru’s estimated net worth is approximately KSh 80 million after liabilities, reflecting her financial success.

What controversies has Anne Waiguru faced?

She was implicated in the 2015 National Youth Service (NYS) corruption scandal, which led to her resignation as Cabinet Secretary. However, she denied wrongdoing and was never formally charged, later making a political comeback as Governor.