Early Life and Education
Christopher John Kirubi was born on 20 August 1941 in Murang’a County, Kenya, into a humble background. Orphaned at a young age, he had to work during school holidays to support himself and his siblings. Despite these challenges, he pursued his education with determination. He later attended INSEAD Institute in France, Handles University in Sweden, and Harvard Business School, USA, gaining valuable business acumen. In recognition of his contributions to entrepreneurship, he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Entrepreneurship by SMA University, Switzerland.

Early Career
Kirubi began his professional journey as a salesman at Shell, repairing and selling gas cylinders. He later transitioned to a role as an Administrator at Kenatco, a government-owned transportation company, during the 1960s and early 1970s.

In the early 1970s, he identified an opportunity in real estate. He started acquiring and renovating dilapidated buildings in Nairobi and Mombasa, either selling them or renting them out. He also invested in prime land in Nairobi, developing commercial and rental properties. This venture laid the foundation for his vast business empire.

Business Empire and Investments
Centum Investment Company
Chris Kirubi was the largest individual shareholder in Centum Investment Company, a leading East African investment firm listed on both the Nairobi Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Uganda Securities Exchange (USE). In March 2020, he applied for regulatory approval to increase his stake in Centum from 30% to 50%, purchasing 133 million shares valued at KSh2.7 billion (US$25.7 million).

Haco Industries
Kirubi was the sole owner of Haco Industries Limited, a household goods manufacturer in Kenya. The company produced personal care products, stationery, and home essentials. In May 2020, Haco sold its BIC brand franchise (stationery, lighters, and shavers) to Société BIC, ending a 40-year partnership.

98.4 Capital FM
A passionate media investor, Kirubi fully owned 98.4 Capital FM, one of Nairobi’s most influential radio stations, focusing on news, business, and entertainment.

Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) & Nation Media Group
Kirubi was a major investor in both Kenya Commercial Bank Group (KCB) and Nation Media Group, two of Kenya’s leading financial and media institutions.

Chairmanships and Board Memberships
Kirubi held several high-profile chairmanships and board positions, including:

• Chairman of:
• DHL Express Kenya Limited
• Haco Industries Kenya Limited
• Kiruna International Limited
• International House Limited
• Nairobi Bottlers Limited
• Sandvik East Africa Limited
• 98.4 Capital FM
• Smart Applications International Limited
• Deputy Chairman of:
• Bayer East Africa Limited
• Board Member & Shareholder of:
• Centum Investment Group
• UAP Provincial Insurance Company Limited
• Beverage Services of Kenya Limited

Former Investments
UAP Holdings – Previously held 9.58% of UAP Holdings, a leading insurance and investment conglomerate, before selling his shares to Old Mutual in 2015.

Philanthropy and Mentorship
Kirubi was dedicated to youth empowerment, launching the Ask Kirubi mentorship program. Through public talks, social media engagement, and school visits, he guided young entrepreneurs and students on business and career development.

Wealth and Recognition
In 2011, Forbes ranked him as Kenya’s second-richest man (behind the Kenyatta family) and 31st in Africa, with an estimated net worth of $301 million.
By 2012, Forbes dropped him from the Africa’s 40 Richest list, though he remained a key business magnate in Kenya.

Death
Chris Kirubi passed away on 14 June 2021 after a long battle with colon cancer. His death marked the loss of one of Kenya’s most influential businessmen and philanthropists, leaving behind a legacy of entrepreneurship, mentorship, and investment in Kenya’s economic growth.

Legacy
Kirubi’s name remains synonymous with investment, mentorship, and business leadership in Kenya and beyond. His bold investments and strategic vision transformed multiple industries, and his mentorship programs continue to inspire future entrepreneurs. change the title of this content.