Margaret Wambui Kenyatta was a trailblazing Kenyan leader and the daughter of Kenya’s first president, Jomo Kenyatta. She was the second Kenyan to serve as Mayor of Nairobi following independence.

Born in 1928, she grew up during the colonial era and was heavily influenced by her father’s political activism. Educated at Alliance Girls High School, Margaret developed a strong sense of justice and an early commitment to public service. She began her career as a teacher before venturing into politics, where she played a significant role in shaping Kenya’s early post-independence governance, particularly in matters concerning women and urban development.

Margaret’s journey into public leadership gained momentum when she became a councillor in Nairobi in the 1960s. Her dedication and growing reputation earned her widespread respect, culminating in her appointment as the city’s second post-independence mayor in 1970.

This historic achievement made her the first African woman to hold the position. She succeeded Mayor Charles Rubia, stepping into leadership at a time when women were rarely represented in high-ranking political offices. Her appointment marked a milestone not only for Nairobi but for women’s leadership across Kenya and the African continent.

During her tenure as mayor from 1970 to 1976, she focused on improving living conditions in Nairobi, particularly in underserved areas.

After her term as mayor, Margaret remained active in public service, including serving as Kenya’s permanent representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat). Her work continued to reflect a deep concern for social justice and sustainable urban development.

Margaret Kenyatta passed away on April 5, 2017, at the age of 89.