Beatrice Elachi: Age, Husband, Tribe, Son Accident, Biography & More

Beatrice Elachi is one of Kenya’s most resilient and trailblazing female leaders, whose career has spanned the corridors of political power, grassroots advocacy, and international diplomacy. Best known as the first female Speaker of the Nairobi County Assembly, Elachi has carved out a legacy defined by bold leadership, controversy, and reform.

But beyond the headlines lies a remarkable story of grit, service, and a deep commitment to public good. From her work with the United Nations to her rise in Kenyan politics, Elachi’s journey is as inspiring as it is instructive.

Quick Facts About Beatrice Elachi

• Full Name: Beatrice Elachi Kadeveresia
• Date of Birth: 1973
• Place of Birth: Kakamega County, Kenya
• Education: BA and MA in Peace and Security Studies, Africa Nazarene University
• Current Position: Member of Parliament, Dagoretti North Constituency
• Previous Roles: Speaker of Nairobi County Assembly, Majority Chief Whip in the Senate
• Political Affiliation: Orange Democratic Movement (ODM)
• Tribe: Luhya

Beatrice Elachi Age

Beatrice Elachi is 52 years old, having been born in 1973 in Kakamega County, Kenya.

Beatrice Elachi Tribe

Elachi hails from the Luhya community.

Beatrice Elachi Biography

Beatrice Kadeveresia Elachi was born in 1973 in Lugari Constituency, Kakamega County, Kenya. She grew up in a cross-cultural family, with her father, Mzee Joel Elachi, hailing from the Luhya community, and her mother, Mary Mumbi Elachi, from the Kikuyu community in Mukurweini, Nyeri County.

This diverse heritage provided her with a unique perspective in her political journey. Beatrice is married and a mother of four children. Beyond her immediate family, she is known for her philanthropic efforts, supporting children orphaned by ethnic clashes in Tana River.

Education

Beatrice Elachi's educational journey began at St. Teresa’s Primary School in Kakamega County. She then attended Moi Girls Vokoli High School for her secondary education. Pursuing higher education, she enrolled at Africa Nazarene University in Nairobi, where she earned both a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in Peace and Security Studies. Additionally, she pursued a diploma in Human Resource Management at Tangaza College.

Career

Beatrice Elachi’s career spans grassroots activism to high-level politics, making her one of Kenya’s most prominent and pioneering female leaders.

Early Career

Before venturing into politics, Elachi was deeply involved in civil society and women's empowerment initiatives. She worked as a Programs Officer for the National Council of Women of Kenya and later joined the Collaborative Centre for Gender and Development. Her roles focused on community mobilization, gender advocacy, and training women parliamentarians.

Entry into Politics

Elachi's political journey was significantly influenced by the late Cabinet Minister John Michuki. In 2005, she joined the 'Banana Team' during the constitutional referendum and later served as the outreach manager for President Mwai Kibaki's 2007 re-election campaign. Her political acumen led to her appointment as the Secretary-General of the Alliance Party of Kenya (APK) in 2011.

Senate and Leadership Roles

In 2013, Elachi was nominated to the Kenyan Senate by the APK under the Jubilee coalition. She made history by becoming the first woman to serve as the Senate Majority Whip. During her tenure, she was instrumental in legislative processes, including the merger of Jubilee coalition parties into the Jubilee Party in 2016.

Nairobi County Assembly Speaker

After an unsuccessful bid for the Dagoretti North parliamentary seat in 2017, Elachi was elected as the Speaker of the Nairobi County Assembly. Her term was marked by both achievements and challenges, including multiple impeachment attempts. She resigned from the position in August 2020.

Current Role

In the 2022 general elections, Beatrice Elachi was elected as the Member of Parliament for Dagoretti North Constituency. She continues to serve in this capacity, focusing on legislative duties and constituency development.

Beatrice Elachi Husband

Beatrice Elachi was previously married to Brian Tendwa Aguba. The couple met in 2007 and had a son together. Their marriage ended after a DNA test revealed that Brian was not the biological father of their second-born daughter, leading to their separation.

Despite their differences, they reunited in March 2025 during the burial of their son, Elvis Murakana Namenya, who tragically died in a road accident.

Beatrice Elachi Son Accident

On the night of March 18, 2025, Beatrice Elachi's son, Elvis Murakana Namenya, tragically lost his life in a car accident. After receiving a late-night call from a friend, Elvis left home to assist but, on his return journey, suffered a tire burst along Thika Road.

In an attempt to control the vehicle, he applied the emergency brakes, causing the car to skid and crash. Elvis sustained severe head injuries and was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit at AAR Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries on March 25, 2025.

Elvis was a Business Studies student at Africa Nazarene University, preparing to graduate in June 2025. Known for his love of football, music, and church, he was described by his mother as a quiet and dedicated young man. His funeral was held on March 29, 2025, at the family home in Nalepo Village, Kajiado County.

In her eulogy, Elachi emphasized the importance of communication between parents and their children, urging young people to seek guidance and support from their families. She also highlighted the need for prayer and unity during challenging times, reflecting on the profound loss of her son.

For a more in-depth account, you can watch Beatrice Elachi's emotional tribute to her son in the video below:

Controversies

Beatrice Elachi, a prominent Kenyan politician, has been at the center of several controversies throughout her career.

1. Impeachment as Nairobi County Assembly Speaker

In September 2018, Elachi faced impeachment due to allegations of abuse of office, undermining the authority of the County Assembly Board, and gross misconduct. She was reinstated in October 2019 following a court order. However, in August 2020, she resigned, citing death threats directed towards her.

2. Allegations of Misuse of Public Funds

During her tenure as Speaker, Elachi was accused of misusing public funds for personal expenses. Reports indicated that she spent approximately KSh 1.5 million on a trip to the U.S. for knee and plastic surgery, which was allegedly funded by the Nairobi County Assembly.

Additionally, she faced scrutiny over attending a "Dubai Leadership Summit" and receiving a questionable "Honorary Doctorate Degree" from the "London Graduate School," with expenses reportedly covered by public funds.

3. Controversial Remarks on Government Critics

In January 2025, Elachi made headlines by suggesting that individuals critical of the government should leave Kenya if they found it unsatisfactory. Her comments were widely criticized as dismissive of citizens' frustrations.

She later clarified that her statement had been taken out of context and emphasized the importance of addressing government shortcomings respectfully.

4. Allegations of Discriminatory Hiring Practices

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) investigated Elachi over alleged irregular promotions and appointments during her time as Speaker. She denied the allegations, asserting that all promotions were based on merit and proper procedures. Elachi claimed that the EACC had not provided her with an opportunity to respond to the allegations.

These controversies have significantly impacted Elachi's political career, leading to public scrutiny and legal challenges.

Conclusion

Beatrice Elachi remains a powerful and influential figure in Kenyan politics, known for her trailblazing leadership and resilience amid controversy. Her journey—from grassroots activism to becoming Nairobi’s first female County Assembly Speaker and now a Member of Parliament—reflects a commitment to public service and determination to break barriers. While challenges and criticisms have tested her, Elachi’s story is one of perseverance and a continued drive to impact Kenya’s political landscape positively.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is Beatrice Elachi?

Beatrice Elachi is a Kenyan politician currently serving as the Member of Parliament for Dagoretti North. She was previously the Speaker of the Nairobi County Assembly from 2017 to 2020.

How old is Beatrice Elachi?

Beatrice Elachi was born in 1973, making her 52 years old as of 2025.

What tribe is Beatrice Elachi?

Elachi hails from the Luhya community.

What is Beatrice Elachi’s educational background?

She attended St. Teresa’s Primary School, Moi Girls Vokoli High School, and later earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Peace and Security Studies from Africa Nazarene University. She also holds a diploma in Human Resource Management from Tangaza College.

Who is Beatrice Elachi’s husband?

Beatrice Elachi was married to Brian Tendwa Aguba. They separated after a DNA test revealed he was not the biological father of their second child. They reunited briefly during their son’s funeral in 2025.

What happened to Beatrice Elachi’s son?

Her son, Elvis Murakana Namenya, died in a car accident on March 25, 2025, after sustaining fatal injuries from a tire burst-related crash.

Has Beatrice Elachi been involved in controversies?

Yes. She was impeached as Nairobi County Assembly Speaker in 2018 over abuse of office allegations but reinstated in 2019. She resigned in 2020 citing death threats. She also faced accusations of misusing public funds and stirred public debate with controversial remarks about government critics in 2025.