I owe her a lot: Uhuru Kenyatta opens up about special bond with late first cousin Beatrice Wambui

Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta has paid an emotional tribute to his late first cousin, Beatrice Wambui Muturi, recalling how she was part of his life from childhood and remained a strong source of support throughout his political journey.

Speaking during her burial service at PCEA Nairobi West Church on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, the fourth president described Wambui as more than a relative, saying she had played an important role in shaping the person he became.

Kenyatta recalled growing up alongside her, explaining that their family homes were close to each other along Kasuku Road. The proximity meant they spent much of their childhood together, sharing experiences and getting into mischief.

“All the mischief that was done was done together. We learnt about the world together. And therefore, we owe her a lot. I owe her personally a lot in terms of my own growing up,” he said.

The retired president said their bond stretched back to when he was about five years old, making her an important part of his life for decades.

He also remembered Wambui’s contribution to the political career of her relative, whom he referred to as Gengi, saying she was a key supporter and the backbone of his leadership in Gatundu.

According to Kenyatta, she was so well known in the constituency that residents would sometimes ask why she was not seeking an elective position herself.

Kenyatta said Wambui extended the same support to him when he entered politics, standing by him from his early days as a Member of Parliament to his eventual election as President of Kenya.

He described her as a strong pillar and guide who supported his political activities throughout the different stages of his career.

“In my time, she supported me to the hilt, from my first days and everything to becoming an MP, to ultimately becoming President of the Republic. She was a strong pillar and guide in my political activities,” he said.

The fourth Head of State said her death had therefore left a gap in several parts of his life, as he had lost someone who had been a sister, mother, friend and an important figure in his upbringing.

“So I have not only lost a sister, I have not only lost a mother and a friend, but I also feel I have lost somebody who has been very pivotal in my growing up,” he added.

Beatrice Wambui Muturi was the wife of the late John Muturi Thumi and a mother of eight children. She was also a grandmother and great-grandmother.

According to her family announcement, she died in the early hours of November 2, 2026, after a long illness. Her daughter, Mumbi, later revealed that she had been diagnosed with myeloid leukaemia, a form of blood cancer.

Her family remembered her as a source of love, strength and inspiration whose influence extended to relatives, friends and several generations of the family. She was laid to rest at the family home in Kiganjo, Gatundu South, following the service at PCEA Nairobi West Church.

Kenyatta urged relatives to remain united and preserve the family bonds that Wambui had helped nurture, saying her legacy should continue through the unity she valued.

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