Jimmy Wanjigi was born in 1962 in Nairobi, Kenya, into a prominent political family. His father, Maina Wanjigi, was a Member of Parliament and a Cabinet Minister during the late President Jomo Kenyatta’s government. Growing up in an influential environment, Wanjigi was exposed to both business and politics from a young age.
He attended St. Mary’s School in Nairobi, where he was classmates with several future prominent Kenyan figures. After completing his primary education, Wanjigi went abroad for higher education, where he studied commerce and business administration.
Career
Jimmy Wanjigi is a well-known Kenyan businessman and political strategist. He first gained recognition in the business world through his involvement in the importation of construction materials and later diversified into various sectors, including telecommunications, real estate, and banking.
Wanjigi’s influence in Kenyan politics is significant. He is known as the “Kingmaker” due to his role in the election campaigns of several key political figures in Kenya. Wanjigi was instrumental in the campaigns of Mwai Kibaki in 2002 and Raila Odinga in 2007. His political strategies have made him a powerful figure behind the scenes.
Despite his wealth and influence, Wanjigi has faced various controversies, including accusations of corruption and illegal arms dealings, though he has never been convicted of any crimes. His home was raided in 2017 by Kenyan police, an incident that drew significant media attention.
Personal Life
Jimmy Wanjigi is married to Irene Nzisa, and they have two children. The family is known for maintaining a low profile despite Wanjigi’s public persona. His wife, Irene, is involved in philanthropic activities and supports various charitable causes in Kenya.
Wanjigi is also a man of faith and has been seen participating in religious events. He is known to be a member of the Catholic Church and often credits his success to divine intervention.
Meet Irene Nzisa Wanjigi
Irene Nzisa Wanjigi has impressed netizens with her loyalty and devotion to her husband, Jimi Wanjigi with the couple’s chemistry causing excitement online.
During tough times, including the two raids by police officers (in 2017 and most recently 2024), Irene has stood by her husband, lovingly holding him while he addresses the press.
After keeping their marriage aware from the glare of the public for years, Nzisa was thrust to the limelight when police raided the couple’s home in Muthaiga.
Her first media appearance on October 18, 2017 saw her steal the show and become an internet sensation, giving birth to what was referred to as the Jimi Wanjigi photo challenge.
| Full Name | James Bond Wanjigi |
| Date of Birth | 1962 |
| Age | 62 years (as of 2024) |
| Place of Birth | Nairobi, Kenya |
| Nationality | Kenyan |
| Occupation | Businessman, Politician |
| Spouse | Irene Nzisa |
| Children | 2 |
| Religion | Catholic |
| Political Involvement | Key Strategist in Kenyan Elections |
| Net Worth | 27 billion KES |
Political Ambitions
In mid 2021 Wanjigi announced that he would seek the Orange Democratic Movement’s ticket to run for the Presidency of Kenya at the 2022 general election. His announcement is viewed as a challenge of party leader Raila Odingas perceived automatic nomination to run on the Orange Democratic Movement’s ticket, who has officially declared his 5th attempt to run for presidency. Wanjigi on the other hand who is running on a platform of bringing about an economic revolution, is a newcomer to elective politics and his candidature is likely to excite the Mount Kenya region. Currently, his political party is Sofina party.
Net Worth
Jimmy Wanjigi’s net worth is estimated to be in the billions of Kenyan shillings. His wealth comes from his diverse business ventures and his significant investments in various sectors. Below is a breakdown of his estimated net worth:
| Source of Wealth | Estimated Value (in KES) |
|---|---|
| Real Estate | 10 billion |
| Telecommunications | 7 billion |
| Construction and Importation | 5 billion |
| Banking and Financial Services | 3 billion |
| Other Investments | 2 billion |
| Total Estimated Net Worth | 27 billion |
