Kenya has had four presidents and that should mean having four first ladies since independence, right? However, many will tell you that they know three. The most known are: Mama Ngina Kenyatta, the wife to the founding president Jomo Kenyatta; the late Lucy Kibaki, wife to Mwai Kibaki; and Margaret Kenyatta, President Uhuru Kenyatta’s wife.
Ironically, the least known is the longest serving Kenyan president Daniel Moi’s wife (or rather ex-wife) – Lena Moi. This is understandable as their union ended before Moi got to State House. Moi
and Lena wedded in 1950 at the African Inland Church mission in Eldama
Ravine. He paid two heifers, one ox, and four sheep to Lena’s family as
dowry. They then separated in 1974 and finalised divorce in 1979. Lena Moi was, however, accommodated in the family. Lena Moi died in 2004 and was buried in the former president’s homestead in Kabarak. Moi said he would be buried next to her “when time comes”, an indication that they could have reconciled. Lena Moi (left) and Mama Ngina Kenyatta in October 20, 1967 during Kenyatta Day celebrations.
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