Over the past half-century, the Kenyatta family has remained one of the most renowned families in Kenya, having produced the country’s first President, Jomo Kenyatta, and the fourth President, Uhuru Kenyatta.
As a result, many members of the family have often found themselves in the public spotlight, whether through politics, business, or other public interests both within Kenya and abroad. The founding president, Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, had a large family that included four wives and eight children.
One of his wives, whom he married while in the United Kingdom before becoming President, was Edna Grace Clarke. Together, they had one child, Peter Magana Kenyatta.
While Peter Magana has visited Kenya on several occasions, his children have largely maintained a low profile and spent most of their lives in the United Kingdom. One of them is Claudia Kenyatta, who remains relatively unknown to many Kenyans despite her connection to the Kenyatta’s.
In this segment, Times Digital Kenya takes a look at some little-known facts about Claudia Kenyatta, the granddaughter of Jomo Kenyatta.
Education
Born to Peter Magana Kenyatta in London, Claudia Kenyatta received her early education at South Hampstead High School.
She later pursued a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Modern History at University of Oxford.
After completing her undergraduate studies, Claudia went on to study Museum Studies at University College London, where she earned a Master of Arts (MA) degree.
Career
For her career, Claudia Kenyatta has held several prestigious roles, including serving as a Board Trustee for the Black Cultural Archives, where she served from 2022 to December 2023.
Aside from that, Claudia also had a long tenure at the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), where she worked for more than six and a half years.
During her time at the department, she held several senior positions, including Head of Heritage, Head of Ceremonial and Appointments, Deputy Director in the Digital Economy Unit, Interim Director for Digital Economy, and later Director of Corporate Strategy.
Achievements
Just recently, Claudia Kenyatta was honoured as a Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE) by King Charles III for her exceptional contributions to heritage.
Her recognition came as the United Kingdom monarch celebrated individuals who have made massive contributions to British society.
