Former Meru Governor and seasoned politician Kiraitu Murungi is widely known for his decades-long presence in Kenya’s public life.
Yet beyond the political arena, Murungi has quietly built a footprint in the hospitality sector, a move that reflects a growing trend among prominent Kenyan leaders diversifying into private enterprise.
Born in 1952 in South Imenti, Kiraitu attended Chuka High and later joined Alliance Boys High School for His A-levels.
He later joined the University of Nairobi, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in law and a master’s degree in law.
He began his career as a Law teacher at the Kenya School of Law and as an Advocate of the High Court for several years. He also served as a Human Rights Lawyer and Civil Society Leader in the 1990s before joining politics.
Kiraitu’s political career began in 1992 when he became a member of parliament for the South Imenti Constituency. He held the position for over 20 years before being elected as the Meru Governor in 2017.
From 2005-2012, he served as the Minister of Energy in charge of Electricity, Petroleum, and Renewable energy. Kiraitu also served as the Secretary General of the Party Leader of National Unity (PNU), which was the ruling coalition from 2008-2012.
He was a Human Rights Lawyer and Civil Society Leader, where he was a pioneer in the struggle for human rights and multi-party democracy in the 1990s.
Kiraitu was awarded the prestigious Presidential Award, Elder of the Golden Heart (EGH), and the Jubilee Golden Award of Distinguished Public Service
Aside from politics, Kiraitu is a businessman who has invested heavily in the hospitality sectors. He is associated with some of the popular dine and wine spots in Nairobi and Meru counties.
Some of the establishments associated with him are;
Azuri Café & Restaurant
Nestled at Imenti House at the junction of Moi Avenue and Kenyatta Avenue, Azuri offers a vibrant mix of African and International cuisine that celebrate Kenya’s diverse culinary heritage.
The facility established in January 2015 prides itself in blending the Kenyan taste with exotic tastes in its food.
Nkubu Heritage Hotel
Located in Meru, Nkubu Heritage Hotel provides exceptional dining experiences, a contemporary bar, outdoor catering services, wedding venues and adaptable event spaces, rendering it a perfect option for a variety of events.
The facility provides both local and international dishes.
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