Senator Eddy Gicheru Oketch is a prominent Kenyan politician, entrepreneur, and philanthropist whose journey from humble beginnings to national leadership has inspired many. Known for his grassroots activism, climate advocacy, and innovative business ventures, Eddy Gicheru Oketch represents Migori County in the Kenyan Senate.
This article delves into his biography, age, career, family, education, and net worth, providing a detailed look at his remarkable life.
Senator Eddy Oketch’s Biography
Eddy Oketch was born in rural Migori County, in the village of Uriri, where he grew up in a family of modest tobacco farmers. His early life was marked by hardship, particularly after the death of his mother in 2003, which forced him to drop out of school temporarily and seek survival in Migori town and later Nairobi’s streets.
Despite these challenges, Oketch’s resilience and the support of foster families—including the Gicheru family, who took him in and financed his education—propelled him forward. In gratitude, he adopted “Gicheru” as his middle name.
His breakthrough came when he earned a scholarship to Friends School Kamusinga for his O-Level education (2006–2008). He later joined the African Leadership Academy (ALA) in South Africa, where he graduated in 2010 with a diploma in Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and African Studies.
Oketch’s passion for social change led him to found Ongoza, an organization that empowered youth during Kenya’s 2007–2008 post-election violence. His activism earned him international recognition, including speaking at the 2012 G8 Summit and being named among Africa’s Top 30 Under 30 Most Inspirational Young People.
After further studies in the U.S. (a bachelor’s in Political Science from Trinity College and a master’s in Global Affairs from Yale University), he returned to Kenya, where he ventured into fintech as CEO of Anywair Group and founded Treeco Fund, promoting agroforestry.
In 2022, he was elected Migori Senator after a previous attempt in 2018. His political rise has been marked by his advocacy for youth empowerment, climate action, and good governance
Senator Eddy Oketch’s Age
As of 2025, Eddy Gicheru Oketch is approximately 34–36 years old, having been born in the late 1980s or early 1990s (exact birth year not publicly confirmed).
Education Background of Eddy Oketch
Oketch’s academic journey is a testament to his determination:
- Friends School Kamusinga (2006–2008): O-Level education.
- African Leadership Academy (2008–2010): Diploma in Leadership and Entrepreneurship.
- Trinity College, Hartford (2011–2014): Bachelor’s in Political Science.
- Yale University (2014–2016): Master’s in Global Affairs.
- University of Nairobi (2021–present): Pursuing a PhD in Public Policy/Philosophy.
Eddy Gicheru Oketch’s Family: Parents and Wife
Parents
Oketch’s biological parents were tobacco farmers in Migori. His mother’s death in 2003 left the family struggling financially, leading to his temporary homelessness.
Foster Family
The Gicheru family, who supported his education, became a pivotal part of his life, inspiring his middle name.
Wife
Details about Eddy Oketch’s marital status or spouse are not publicly available in the search results.
Career Highlights
- Founder of Ongoza (2008): Empowered youth post-election violence.
- CEO of Anywair Group (2018–2022): Fintech providing microloans.
- Climate Advocate: Founded Treeco Fund for agroforestry.
- Political Career:
- Ran for Migori Senate in 2018 (lost to Ochilo Ayacko).
- Elected Senator in 2022.
Net Worth
While Oketch’s exact net worth is undisclosed, his entrepreneurial ventures (Anywair, Treeco Fund) and political career suggest substantial financial success. His campaigns, including helicopter use in 2018, also indicate access to significant resources.
Conclusion
Senator Eddy Oketch’s life—from a struggling street child to a Yale-educated leader—epitomizes resilience and visionary leadership. His focus on youth empowerment, climate action, and ethical governance continues to shape Kenya’s political landscape. As he pursues his PhD and serves Migori, his story remains an inspiration for aspiring changemakers.
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