Susan Wakarura Kihika, the trailblazing Governor of Nakuru County, stands as a beacon of resilience, courage, and leadership in Kenyan politics. A trained lawyer and seasoned public servant, Kihika has carved a powerful path through legal and political institutions, earning her the well-deserved title of the “Woman of Firsts” by her people.
After completing her law education in the United States, Kihika built a successful legal career, including founding the Kihika Law Firm in Dallas, Texas. For over two decades, she thrived in the U.S., serving both the public and private sectors with excellence. Yet, in 2012, she made the bold decision to return to her homeland and contribute to Kenya’s governance landscape.
Her political journey began in 2013 when she contested the Bahati Constituency parliamentary seat. Although she lost, she refused to be deterred. Instead, she went on to make history in 2013 by defeating seven opponents to become the first Speaker of the Nakuru County Assembly a critical leadership position at the dawn of Kenya’s devolved governance structure.
Her momentum only grew stronger. In 2017, Kihika won the Senatorial seat for Nakuru County under the Jubilee Party, becoming the first female Senator of the county. Her leadership and firm stance on policy and governance issues quickly established her as a formidable political force in Kenya.
On August 9, 2022, Susan Kihika made history again when she was elected Governor of Nakuru County under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), defeating incumbent Lee Kinyanjui. With this victory, she became the first woman to govern Nakuru County, one of Kenya’s most politically and economically significant regions.
Throughout her political career, Kihika has championed women’s leadership, rule of law, and inclusive governance. Her boldness in a male-dominated political space has inspired a new generation of Kenyan women to step into leadership and participate actively in national development.
In a continent where women’s political representation still faces systemic barriers, Susan Kihika’s rise is nothing short of inspirational. She exemplifies how determination, service, and vision can break ceilings and create transformative change at both local and national levels.
As one of the 100 Reputable Women of African Descent 2025, Governor Susan Kihika continues to redefine leadership in Kenya, proving that glass ceilings were meant to be shattered and that the future of African governance is not just female, but fiercely capable.
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