The Luhya ethnic group is one of the largest ethnic communities in Kenya, accounting for about 14% of the country’s population. They are known for their diverse cultural practices, rich history, and notable individuals who have made significant contributions in different fields. Here is a list of the top 10 famous people from the Luhya ethnic:
- Nicole Aiysha Nabwale – A talented young musician and rising star in the Kenyan music industry.
- Julius Yego – Known as the “YouTube Man,” Yego is an Olympic medalist and world record holder in javelin throwing.
- Boniface Mwangi – An award-winning photojournalist, activist, and politician known for his powerful images and social justice work.
- Sarah Serem – The former chairperson of Kenya’s Salaries and Remuneration Commission and a prominent leader in the public service sector.
- Prof. Wangari Maathai – The first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize for her environmental conservation efforts through the Green Belt Movement.
- David Rudisha – A world-renowned middle-distance runner and Olympic gold medalist in the 800 meters.
- Lupita Nyong’o – An Academy Award-winning actress known for her roles in films such as “12 Years a Slave” and “Black Panther.”
- Raila Odinga – A prominent Kenyan politician and former Prime Minister, known for his role in shaping the country’s political landscape.
- Fridah Kaimuri – A long-distance runner who has represented Kenya in international competitions, including the Commonwealth Games and World Championships.
- Joel Kipsang Kemboi – An internationally acclaimed marathon runner and two-time winner of the Chicago Marathon.
This is just a glimpse of the many famous individuals from the Luhya ethnic group who have achieved remarkable success in various fields. Their accomplishments serve as an inspiration to the younger generation and a testament to the talent and potential within the community.
Most Famous Luhya Celebrities
There are several famous celebrities from the Luhya community in Kenya who have made a name for themselves in various fields, including sports, politics, film, and music. These individuals have not only achieved great success but have also become role models and inspirations for many.
- Ezekiel Kemboi – A legendary Kenyan athlete, Ezekiel Kemboi, hails from the Luhya community. He is known for his exceptional achievements in the 3000 meters steeplechase race. Throughout his career, Kemboi won several gold medals in major international competitions, including the Olympic Games and World Championships.
- Elijah Manangoi – Another renowned athlete from the Luhya community, Elijah Manangoi, is a middle-distance runner specializing in the 1500 meters event. He earned a gold medal at the World Championships in 2017 and has consistently performed at a high level in various international competitions.
- Nikita Kering – Nikita Kering is a talented singer-songwriter from the Luhya community who rose to fame after winning the Airtel Trace Music Star competition in 2015. She has since released several hit songs, gaining recognition both locally and internationally for her soulful voice and captivating performances.
- Musalia Mudavadi – Musalia Mudavadi is a prominent Kenyan politician and leader of the Amani National Congress party. He has held various important positions in the government, including serving as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. Mudavadi is known for his extensive political experience and contribution to the national political landscape.
- Innocent Simiyu – Innocent Simiyu is a former Kenyan rugby player and coach who led the national team, the Kenya Sevens, to several notable achievements. Under his guidance, Kenya reached their highest-ever world ranking and emerged as a competitive force in international rugby.
Above is the list of celebrities with Luhya heritage. For more comprehensive information about current celebrity issues and other famous personalities, feel free to visit the website about The Most Famous People.
Factsheet About Luhya People
| Country | Province/County | Population |
|---|---|---|
| Kenya | Western | 6,823,842 |
| Kenya | Rift Valley | 2,170,821 |
| Kenya | Nairobi | 843,632 |
| Kenya | Coast | 558,131 |
| Uganda | Eastern | 161,019 |
| Uganda | Western | 45,793 |
References to the Luhya Ethnic Group
Here are some references to dig deeper into the Luhya ethnic group:
- Luhya people on Wikipedia
- Luhya on Britannica
- Luhya on EveryCulture
- Who Are The Luhya People? on WorldAtlas
- Luhya Population in Kenya 2021 on KenyaPlex
These references will provide you with a wealth of information about the history, culture, traditions, language, and other aspects of the Luhya ethnic group.
We have reached the end of our exploration into the extraordinary lives of prominent Luhya. We hope this journey has been enlightening and inspiring.
