Dr. Joyce Kithure Kindiki: Meet Kenya’s new Second Lady

Newly sworn-in Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki has assumed the second highest office in Kenya, weeks after his predecessor Rigathi Gachagua was impeached.

The Friday ceremony held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), which was full of pomp and colour, gave Kenyans a glimpse of his little-known spouse - Dr. Joyce Gatiria Njagi Kithure - as the two walked ceremoniously on the red carpet with their hands clasped.

Despite having an industrious career in the political arena spanning over 10 years, DP Kindiki has lived a private life, something which kept many curious about his wife and family.

Moments after his swearing, DP Kindiki wasted no time in acknowledging the contribution of his wife and family 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," he said.

"I’m grateful to my wife and children for being the foundation and providing support that I have always required as I navigate this difficult space.”

Dr. Joyce is an established academic, like her husband, with more than more than 10 years in the bag as a lecturer at the University of Nairobi, where she specializes in Environmental Chemistry.

She holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Chemistry, a Master’s in Science, and a PhD in Environmental Chemistry from the University of Nairobi.

The mother of three tied the knot with Prof. Kindiki back in 2001, after which she continued to pursue her studies.

At the time, Kindiki was yet to join public service and was still teaching law at Moi and Nairobi universities, while also serving as a visiting lecturer abroad.

Dr. Joyce acquired her Doctorate degree in 2013 at a time when her husband was transitioning from public service to politics. The same year, Kindiki successfully contested the Senate seat for Tharaka Nithi under the TNA party.

The couple has three daughters, namely; Imani, Neema, and Mwende.

Dr. Joyce will now be succeeding Pastor Dorcas Gachagua as the third Second Lady.