Sonko Adopts Boy Who Watched His Father Get Murdered In Mathare

Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has announced the adoption of Baby James, 3, a boy who tragically lost his father to a violent attack in Huruma’s Mathare Area 4A.

The deceased, identified only as Michael, was fatally stabbed in the stomach by suspected thugs with what is believed to have been a knife around 5:40 a.m. on Monday, January 20, as he was accompanying his son to school, leaving young James to witness the horrifying event.

The father was a construction worker and a single parent, leaving James orphaned.

Sonko took to social media to express his gratitude, stating, “I thank God for blessing me with another son.” He outlined his plans for James, ensuring the boy’s immediate needs are met by providing him with a stable home environment.

The former governor also extended his appreciation to several local officials and community workers who had been looking after James since the tragedy. He specifically thanked Mr. Victor Owiti, the Sub-County Children’s Officer for Mathare, Christine Dembah, the Senior Chief, as well as Agness Nganga, Sophia Akinyi from Shofco, and Margret Nzuki for their immediate response and care towards the child.

Understanding the trauma the young boy has endured, Sonko has committed to securing professional psychological help for James. “Since the kid is traumatised, I will engage the services of a professional therapist for his healing journey,” he noted. Additionally, he plans for James to continue his education, albeit at a different school of his choosing, aiming to provide a fresh start away from the painful memories.

Baby James, who was hosted by Sonko at his home, appeared traumatized as he kept saying, ‘Baba yangu alidungwa na kisu’ (my father was stabbed). Sonko gave him assurance and bought him gifts that will keep him engaged through his mental treatment.

Sonko’s gesture not only provides a glimmer of hope for Baby James but also highlights the community’s role in supporting its most vulnerable members during times of crisis. He concluded his statement with prayers for James’s comfort and protection, and for peace for the soul of the departed father.

This is not the first time Sonko has adopted a child.

In March 2014, he took in Baby Satrin Osinya and his brother, Gift, after their mother was fatally shot during a church attack in Mombasa.

At the time, Satrin had a bullet lodged in his skull, and his father could not afford the surgery.

Sonko facilitated the necessary treatment, and since then, Satrin and Gift, now teenagers, continue to live under his care.