Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has shared a deeply personal story that highlights the power of mentorship and the enduring impact of thoughtful leadership.
In an inspiring tribute to the late President Mwai Kibaki, Gachagua revealed how a simple gesture—offering a book instead of money—set him on a path to lifelong success.
The moment dates back to 1989, when a young Gachagua, then a student at the University of Nairobi and leader of the Nyeri University Students Association, sought an audience with Mwai Kibaki at his office in Jogoo House, Nairobi.
“I remember going to see Mwai Kibaki in 1989,” Gachagua said.
“We had discussions, and he wanted to know what were my ambitions. I told him about my interest in starting a business. I thought he would give me some money. Not Mwai Kibaki! He went over to his shelf, looked through some books, produced one and gave it to me.”
That book, “The Oil” by Jonathan Black, would prove more valuable than any financial token. “He told me, ‘If you want to be a good businessman, go and read this book,’” Gachagua recalled. “That was his mentorship, and today I’m a good businessman. That was his leadership instead of tokenism.”
The story serves as a metaphor for Kibaki’s philosophy—empowering others not with handouts, but with knowledge, wisdom, and tools to grow. For Gachagua, that moment became a turning point that guided his life’s journey.
After graduating with a degree in Political Science and Literature from the University of Nairobi, Gachagua joined the public service as a District Officer. His career would span several roles within the Office of the President and the Ministry of Local Government, where he served as a Personal Assistant to then-Minister Uhuru Kenyatta. These formative years gave him insight into governance, leadership, and service.
Gachagua later transitioned into the private sector, where he became a successful businessman, drawing from the inspiration and principles instilled in him by Kibaki’s mentorship.
In 2017, he entered elective politics, winning the Mathira Constituency parliamentary seat. As a Member of Parliament, he was known for championing grassroots development and advocating fiercely for his constituents.
His national profile rose further when he was picked as William Ruto’s running mate in the 2022 general election. Their Kenya Kwanza Alliance won the presidency, and Gachagua assumed office as the Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya.
Today, looking back on his extraordinary journey from a university student seeking direction to the second-highest office in the country, Gachagua credits much of his growth to a single moment of mentorship—a book handed to him by a man who believed in building minds rather than offering fleeting aid.
Mwai Kibaki’s legacy, as illustrated through this story, is one of vision, intellect, and long-term investment in people. It reminds us all that the most powerful gifts are not material—they are the lessons and ideas that shape our destiny.
In Gachagua’s own words, “That was leadership, not tokenism.”
