Jimi Richard Wanjigi is a prominent Kenyan billionaire businessman, corporate executive, and political strategist. For decades, Wanjigi operated as a highly influential behind-the-scenes kingmaker in Kenyan politics before transitioning into a frontline politician and the party leader of the Safina Party.
St. Mary’s School, Nairobi
Pre-1982
Elite secondary school in Nairobi. He studied alongside notable Kenyan figures like Uhuru Kenyatta and Jeff Koinange.
York University (Canada)
1982 – 198
He matriculated at this Toronto institution to study business. Reports differ on whether he completed the full degree here before returning to Kenya.
Daystar University
Ongoing (As of 2022)
A postgraduate program focusing heavily on security studies, which he was actively pursuing during his presidential bid.
Daystar University
Completed by 2022
Enrolled to complete his undergraduate higher education studies. His graduation status here was a focal point of his 2022 IEBC clearance dispute.
BINS Limited
1986 – 1990s
Co-founded Kenya’s very first private waste management and garbage collection company right after returning from university.
Tyl Limited
Late 1990s – Present
Operates a private international cash transfer and financial consulting entity used for foreign commercial transactions.
National Rainbow Coalition (NARC)
2002
Worked behind the scenes as a critical campaign mobilizer and strategist to help secure Mwai Kibaki's presidential election victory.
Jubilee Coalition
2012 - 2013
Played a central kingmaker role by brokering the political alliance between Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto, heavily financing their 2013 joint presidential campaign.
National Super Alliance (NASA)
2017
Shifted political allegiance to serve as the main strategist and financial backer for Raila Odinga’s 2017 opposition presidential campaign.
Safina Party
2021 - present
Launched his first formal bid for elective politics, running for the Presidency of Kenya before being disqualified over degree certificate logistics.
Kwacha Group of Companies
1990s – Present
Leads the primary Wanjigi family office holding firm. Oversees diverse multi-sector investments including agribusiness, real estate, financial services, and industrials.