Gift Osinya, the adopted son of former Nairobi governor Mike Sonko, has captured the hearts of many Kenyans with his remarkable transformation over the past decade, following the tragic loss of his mother in a terror attack. Gift and his younger brother, Satrin, were taken in by Sonko after their mother died shielding Satrin during a deadly church shooting in Likoni, Mombasa in 2014.
At just 13 years old, Gift was photographed rushing his injured baby brother to the hospital, a powerful image that symbolized courage, love, and sacrifice. This act of bravery deeply moved the nation and caught the attention of Sonko, who decided to adopt both boys and provide them with the support and care they needed.
Since then, Gift’s journey has been marked by resilience and academic success. In 2020, he was recognized with the Jubilee Insurance Samaritan Award for his heroic efforts in saving his brother during the attack. This award celebrated his strength and selflessness in the face of tremendous adversity.
Gift continued to excel academically, scoring an impressive 399 marks in his Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) exams in 2018. In recognition of his hard work, Sonko rewarded him with KSh 399,000 and pledged KSh 2 million towards his future education. Gift went on to attend Lenana School, where he successfully completed his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams in 2021.
Now 24 years old, Gift is preparing to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Information Technology from Scots University this September. He is currently interning at the Diamond Trust Bank (DTB) head office, gaining valuable work experience and earning a salary. Plans are already underway for him to pursue a master’s degree at Brighton University in the United Kingdom.
Sonko’s support has been pivotal in Gift’s growth and success, providing not only financial assistance but also emotional support and guidance. Gift’s story is one of hope and determination, showing how a tragic beginning can lead to an inspiring journey of triumph.
In another act of compassion, Sonko also adopted a young boy named James after his father was murdered in Mathare. Sonko committed to offering James professional counseling and ensuring he receives quality education, further highlighting the former governor’s dedication to helping vulnerable children overcome hardship and build brighter futures.
Gift Osinya’s transformation is a testament to the power of family, perseverance, and opportunity. His inspiring journey continues to motivate many Kenyans, proving that with the right support and determination, it is possible to rise above even the most difficult circumstances.
