‪Kenyan Woman Elected First Black Mayor of Dunstable in UK‬

Kenyan Sally Kimondo has become the first Black mayor of Dunstable in the United Kingdom. She was elected on Monday, May 19, 2025, during the 40th annual meeting of the Dunstable Town Council.

The Dunstable Town Council celebrated her victory in an official statement, calling it a historic milestone for the community.

Born in Kenya, Councillor Kimondo settled in Dunstable, 45km north of London, some 20 years ago.

In a statement, the 47-year-old said that she would continue the work of previous mayors.

“I am an immigrant who has settled in the UK and made Dunstable my home. I am the first Black mayor. I want to listen to people and ensure their needs are at the heart of everything we do,” she said.

Outside of her social work, Kimondo founded the Luton, Dunstable & Surrounding Kenya Community Forum (LDSKCF), a group for Kenyan people in the area, providing a space for them to connect and share their culture.

When asked what she will bring to her role, the new mayor said: “Diversity and the ability to connect with people in different ways.

“I’ve experienced domestic violence and discrimination. I’ve learnt to be more considerate of others because I know how I have been treated. For me, it’s also about promoting multiculturalism, because our society has evolved so much. I’m someone who has worked hard and wants to give back to the community and society. I want to be someone who can recognise that some of us are making a positive contribution to society.”

The town council’s spokesperson said Kimondo appointment marks a powerful moment of progress and representation for Dunstable.

“As Mayor, she brings a wealth of experience, compassion, and a forward-thinking vision for the future of Dunstable. Her leadership is not only a reflection of the town’s growing diversity but also a testament to the strength of unity and community spirit.”

Ms Kimondo is the daughter of the late Kiruhi Kimondo, who was a Member of Parliament for the Starehe constituency during the Moi era, and Ruth Kimondo.

She is the mother of Hope Grant. She holds a degree in social work from the University of Bedfordshire.