Faiza Jama, popularly known as Deka Jamaa, is more than just the wife of Kenyan politician Junet Mohamed—she is a dynamic campaigner, a multilingual orator, and a key pillar in her husband’s political career. While Junet made history as the first Kenyan-Somali MP elected in Luo-dominated Nyanza, Faiza has played an equally crucial role in his victories, captivating voters with her fluent Dholuo speeches and grassroots mobilization.
This biography explores Faiza Jama’s background, her role in Kenyan politics, her marriage to Junet Mohamed, and her growing influence as a political figure in her own right.
Early Life and Background
Faiza Jama was born into a Somali family, though details about her exact birthplace and early childhood remain private. Unlike her husband, who grew up in Migori, Faiza’s early years were likely spent in a predominantly Somali community, possibly in Northeastern Kenya or Nairobi.
Education and Linguistic Skills
While there is limited public information about her formal education, Faiza’s ability to speak fluent Dholuo—a language native to the Luo community in Western Kenya—suggests she either:
- Lived in Migori for an extended period, adapting to the local culture.
- Made a conscious effort to learn the language to support her husband’s political career.
Her linguistic prowess has been a major asset in Junet’s campaigns, allowing her to connect deeply with Luo voters in Suna East Constituency 311.
Marriage to Junet Mohamed
Faiza Jama married Junet Mohamed, a rising political star in ODM, and together they have five children. Their union is a blend of Somali and Luo political influence, breaking ethnic barriers in Kenyan politics.
Role in Junet’s Political Campaigns
Faiza is not just a supportive spouse—she is an active campaigner. During the 2022 elections, she became a viral sensation after videos surfaced of her delivering impassioned speeches in Dholuo, urging voters to support Junet and Raila Odinga’s Azimio coalition 23.
One of her most memorable campaign lines was:
“I’m begging even if you are sick, in the village, someone with no fare—let us come together and help each other. We vote for Baba Raila Amollo Odinga 100%, in Azimio blue is the only colour for presidential, the rest is ODM. ODM is our home. There is nowhere we are going.” 11
Her speeches resonated so deeply that some voters mistook her for a candidate on the ballot 3.
Public Persona and Media Presence
Faiza Jama maintains a low-key but impactful presence in Kenyan politics. She is often seen:
- Campaigning in traditional buibui (a long Somali dress), blending her cultural identity with political activism 11.
- Representing Junet at official events, such as collecting his election certificate in 2022 when he was unavailable 14.
- Engaging with supporters on social media, where she expresses gratitude to voters in both Swahili and Dholuo 14.
Fan Reactions and Political Potential
Many Kenyans have urged Faiza to run for office herself, with comments like:
“Next election, I urge you to stand for an elective post. We will stand by you.” 14
Her ability to transcend ethnic politics and appeal to diverse voters makes her a potential future leader in Kenyan politics.
Conclusion: The Woman Behind the MP
Faiza Jama (Deka Jamaa) is more than a politician’s wife—she is a strategist, communicator, and unifying figure in Kenyan politics. Her mastery of Dholuo, combined with her Somali heritage, symbolizes the possibility of cross-ethnic political alliances in Kenya.
As Junet Mohamed continues to rise as Minority Leader in Parliament, Faiza’s influence grows alongside him. Will she step into elective politics herself? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: her voice has already left a mark on Kenyan democracy.
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