Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has shared an emotional account marking the coming-of-age and upcoming marriage of a young woman he has raised for nearly two decades, highlighting a personal journey he describes as one of resilience, faith, and transformation.
In a detailed social media post, Sonko reflected on how Janet Kaindi, who came into his household 18 years ago as an orphan from Nzeluni Village in Mwingi, Kitui County, has grown from a vulnerable child into a university graduate now preparing to start her own family.
He said her early life was marked by hardship after losing both parents, adding that she joined his family while still in Class Three.
“18 years ago, Janet Kaindi came into my family from Nzeluni Village… carrying a burden no child should ever have to bear,” he stated.
Sonko noted that she was later enrolled at Baraka Primary School in Buruburu and proceeded to Arya Girls High School, where she pursued her secondary education.
According to him, her journey through school was defined by determination and resilience.
He added that her academic path eventually led her to Daystar University, where she graduated after years of effort and persistence.
“By God’s grace, we welcomed her into our home and enrolled her at Baraka Primary School… and later at Arya Girls High School,” he wrote.
The former governor said Janet has now grown into a confident and responsible young woman ready to start her own family.
“Today, when I look at Janet, I do not see the frightened orphaned girl… I see a remarkable, beautiful, intelligent, and responsible woman,” he said.
He revealed that the emotional turning point came last month when the family of Janet’s fiancé visited his Nyari residence for formal introductions.
He added that the recent ruracio ceremony held at his Mua Hills home marked another major milestone in her life.
“My heart first began to overflow with emotion last month when the parents of her fiancé visited our Nyari home,” Sonko said, describing the moment as deeply personal and overwhelming.
The groom has been identified as Elvis Kintu, whose family formally sought Janet’s hand in marriage during the ceremony. Sonko said the event was filled with gratitude, pride, and reflection.
He further disclosed that he invited elders from the Akamba Council of Clans drawn from Ukambani to participate in the dowry ceremony, saying their presence gave cultural weight to the occasion.
The elders, led by representatives including Daniel Mutunga Muasya and Felix Mutune Malenga, received the dowry on behalf of his family. Sonko announced that the couple’s main wedding is scheduled for July 14 at Limuru Gardens.
He concluded his message by reflecting on faith and gratitude, noting Janet’s journey as a testimony of transformation. “To God be all the glory,” he stated, expressing blessings for her future marriage.