Cyrus Shakhalaga Khwa Jirongo was a notable politician from Kenya's Western region, remembered for his vibrant personality and significant public presence. Those who knew him attested to his brilliance and talent, describing a man who lived life to the fullest. Jirongo was known for his generosity, often spending money faster than he earned it, and had a known fondness for whiskey and the company of women.

Beyond his personal life, Jirongo was a prominent businessman, particularly through his company, Sololo Outlets. This entity gained considerable attention in Kenyan courts from the early 1990s due to the massive loans it acquired from local banks. These funds were channelled into substantial real estate projects, including the notable Hazina Housing Project in South B, Nairobi. Sololo Outlets accrued immense debts, a situation compounded by protracted court battles. These legal proceedings were not only financial in nature but were also meticulously orchestrated, reportedly with the aim of politically crippling Jirongo.

Jirongo's political journey saw him connected to some of Kenya's most influential figures. In July 2014, he received condolences from then-President William Ruto during the burial service of his mother, the late Selina Ikonanga Jirongo, held at Lumakanda grounds in Lugari. A year later, in July 2015, Jirongo was seen consoling former President Daniel Arap Moi during the funeral of Moi's grandson, Kiprono Ruto Moi, at Kabarak University. Early in his career, Jirongo was mentored by Elijah Mwangale, a powerful minister in President Daniel arap Moi’s government and former Kimilili MP. This mentorship highlights the depth of his political connections, further underscored by the fact that Elijah Mwangale’s nephew, Joseph Mwangale, was also a member of the influential Youth for Kanu ’92 (YK92) movement.