As Kenya joins the world in celebrating World Book and Copyright Day on April 23, it is not just authors and readers in the spotlight; Kenya’s political figures are making their own literary mark.
Today, we turn our attention to the growing number of Kenyan politicians who have ventured into memoir-writing, offering the public a rare and candid glimpse into their personal journeys and political careers.
In a country where politics often unfolds behind closed doors, these memoirs provide a unique opportunity to understand the individuals behind the headlines, shedding light on their motivations, struggles, and ambitions.
Here’s a look at some of Kenya’s politicians who have embraced the pen to share their journeys:
1. Martha Karua
Martha Karua’s memoir, Against the Tide, released in November 2024, offers a powerful narrative of her rise from Kirinyaga County to become one of Kenya’s leading political figures. Known for her unwavering stance on justice and her role in Kenya’s reform efforts, Karua reflects on the personal sacrifices she made and the political battles she fought, including her time as Minister for Justice.
The memoir gives readers an inside look at her life, offering a candid portrayal of the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated political field.
2. Raila Odinga
Raila Odinga’s The Quest for Nationhood: Roadmap to Our Future, released in 2017, gives details of past elections in Kenya, highlighting how the opposition factored into the tapestry of the elective processes.
The former prime minister in the book recalls the 1968 election that was postponed, apparently because the ruling party, the Kenya African National Union (KANU), faced a tough battle with the then-opposition wing of the Kenya People’s Union (KPU).
In 2013, he released his first memoir, The Flame of Freedom, which is more than just a personal story; it is a historical account of Kenya’s journey to democracy. In it, Raila recounts his experiences with political persecution, detention, and his ongoing fight for justice and democratic reforms.
The book provides valuable insights into his years as an opposition leader and his role in Kenya’s post-independence history.
3. Kalonzo Musyoka
In his 2016 memoir, Against All Odds, Kalonzo Musyoka shares the story of his rise from a modest background to the vice presidency of Kenya. He discusses his experiences in coalition politics, his approach to leadership, and the personal challenges he faced throughout his political career.
Kalonzo’s memoir gives readers a deeper understanding of his leadership philosophy and the political dynamics of Kenya’s ever-evolving democracy.
4. Daniel Moi
The late president released his official biography titled The Making of an African Statesman in 1994. The book was written by British author Andrew Morton, best known for writing biographies of prominent global figures.
The book offers a detailed, though highly polished, account of Moi’s life from his early years in rural Baringo to his rise as a powerful and influential leader on the African continent. It also highlights his role in maintaining national unity, expanding education, and navigating Cold War politics during his 24-year rule.
5. Aden Duale
Aden Duale’s memoir, For the Record, launched in 2021, offers a no-holds-barred look at his political journey. From his early days in Garissa to his rise as Majority Leader in Kenya’s National Assembly, Duale gives readers an unfiltered view of the internal dynamics within the Jubilee Party.
The memoir explores his relationships with key political figures, including his loyalty to President William Ruto and his role in shaping Kenya’s legislative landscape.
6. Moody Awori
Moody Awori’s 2009 memoir, Riding on a Tiger, combines humour and wisdom as it reflects on his time as Kenya’s vice president and his contributions to public service.
The book recounts his reform efforts in Kenya’s prison system and his time in Parliament, offering a blend of personal anecdotes and political commentary
World Book Day
World Book and Copyright Day, first declared by UNESCO in 1995, is meant to promote a culture of respect for creative work. But in Kenya, it’s increasingly being used by writers to call for fairer systems, not just celebration.
The date was chosen because it’s the anniversary of the deaths of famous authors William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes.
According to UNESCO, this year’s theme focuses on “Read Your Way”, a call to celebrate diverse formats and voices, whether in physical books, audiobooks, or digital stories.