Beyond the presidency, a diverse and international family shaped Barack Obama. The story of the Obama family is a truly unique one, spanning continents and cultures. He has a sister from his mother’s side and several half-siblings from his father’s side, each with their own distinct life journey.
The American Sibling: Maya Soetoro-Ng
Maya Soetoro-Ng is Barack Obama’s only full sibling, a younger half-sister from his mother’s second marriage to Lolo Soetoro. Born in Indonesia, she’s a well-respected academic and educator who holds a Ph.D. in international education from the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa. Maya has been a staunch supporter of her brother’s political career, even campaigning for him and speaking at the 2008 Democratic National Convention. She is known for her work in peace education and has authored a children’s book. Barack’s father, Barack Hussein Obama Sr., had a large family in Kenya, resulting in a number of half-siblings for the former president. The most well-known are Auma, Malik, and George Obama. Their lives present a striking contrast to the one their American half-brother has lived.
Auma Obama
Auma, an older half-sister, is a well-educated community activist, author, and sociologist.Auma holds a Ph.D. from Germany and runs the Sauti Kuu foundation to help orphans and disadvantaged youth in Kenya. She shares a close bond with Barack, who featured her prominently in his book, Dreams from My Father.
Malik Obama
The eldest of the half-siblings, Malik Obama, has had a turbulent relationship with his brother. He served as the best man at Barack’s wedding in 1992, and the two were once very close. However, their relationship has become estranged. In recent years, Malik has publicly endorsed political opponents of his brother and has even promoted conspiracy theories.
George Obama
A media frenzy erupted after the public revealed the identity of Barack’s youngest half-brother, George, who was only six months old when their father died. George now lives and works with a community group in a Nairobi ghetto to help its slum dwellers.
A Family’s Global Tapestry
Obama’s siblings’ stories, from Maya’s support to Malik’s disagreements, humanize him and highlight the complex, far-reaching nature of his family. Their diverse backgrounds reflect the multifaceted, global journey that shaped his family and his presidency.
