Meet Dr. Joyce Gatiria, The Country’s New Second Lady

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Deputy President Kithure Kindiki with his wife Dr. Joyce Gatiria Njagi Kindiki during his swearing-in ceremony, 1 November 2024.
PCS

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki is a dedicated politician, with a quiet personality and a private family life.

His swearing-in on Friday, November 1, gave Kenyans an opportunity to get a closer look into the Deputy President's family, which has for the most been off the limelight.

The Deputy President was accompanied by his wife Dr. Joyce Gatiria Njagi Kithure who walked hand in hand with the DP down the red carpet leading to the swearing-in ceremony.

But, who is Dr.Joyce Gatiria Njagi Kithure? She is the firstborn child in her family. As the firstborn, she mentored and guided her younger siblings through the challenges of life.

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Deputy President Kithure Kindiki with his wife Dr. Joyce Gatiria Njagi Kindiki during his swearing-in ceremony, 1 November 2024.
PCS

She is an esteemed senior lecturer at the University of Nairobi in the Department of Chemistry, a position she has been assuming for over 10 years now.

Just like her husband, Professor Kindiki, Dr. Joyce Gatiria is an academic who boasts in the field of Environmental Chemistry Holding a Bachelor of Science, a Master’s in Science, and a PhD in Environmental Chemistry.

Dr. Joyce Gatiria Kithure got her doctorate of Philosophy in Environmental Chemistry from the University of Nairobi in 2013. 

The second lady is widely respected for her contributions to chemistry as well as her commitment to maintaining a balanced and impactful career in academia.

She got married to the Deputy President in 2001  in a memorable celebration witnessed by family and close friends. Together, they are blessed with three children.

While the marriage marked the beginning of a partnership, Joyce continued her scholarly pursuits while supporting Kindiki as he transitioned into public service.

In his first speech as Deputy President, Kithure Kindiki expressed his heartfelt tribute to his wife, Dr. Joyce Kithure who according to the DP has sacrificed a lot to see him through his political journey. 

"Allow me to thank my wonderful wife Joyce Kithure a professional in her own right who has sacrificed to raise our three children Imani, Neema, and Mwende for the many days and nights of my absence." a grateful Kindiki said. 

"I am grateful to my wife, and children for being the foundation and providing support that I have always required as I navigate this difficult space", Kindiki continued.

Joyce Gatiria Njagi Kithure is taking over from Pastor Dorcas Rigathi whose spouse was impeached earlier this week. She is expected to fit into the shoes of Dorcus and propel the nation with more government projects.

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Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, with his wife Joyce Kindiki during the swearing-in ceremony, 1 November 2024.
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