This archive report was first published on 28 July 2019.
On Mother's Day, the late Kibra MP Ken Okoth took to social media to celebrate his mother, posting heartfelt messages with the hashtags #DreamsOfOurMothers, #HappyMothersDay, and #FromKibraWithLove.
Ken's mother, Angeline, was a woman of unwavering determination. After their father abandoned them, she worked tirelessly to ensure that her six children had the best possible life. She sold clothes, paraffin, and tomatoes in Kibra to make ends meet, even going to the extent of selling items from their home to provide for her family.
Ken's childhood was marked by hardship, but his mother's love and dedication instilled in him a strong sense of purpose. He attended Olympic Primary School, where he wore worn-out shoes and a patched uniform, but his mother's sacrifices paved the way for him to attend boarding school, college, and eventually Georgetown's graduate school.
Ken's journey was not without its challenges, but his mother's unwavering support and encouragement helped him to overcome obstacles and achieve his dreams. He received a scholarship from Save the Children to attend boarding school in Nairobi and later won a scholarship to study in Europe, where he became a German major.
After college, Ken was accepted to Georgetown's BMW Center for German and European Studies, but he couldn't afford the tuition. However, the dean's office found a way to offer him a full scholarship, which Ken gratefully accepted.
Ken's mother's influence extended beyond his personal life. He was deeply committed to his foundation, which served children in Kibera. He believed that every child deserved a voice and an advocate, and he worked tirelessly to ensure that their stories were heard.
