Catherine Wanjiku Waruguru: Meet the Woman Politician Who Is a Theologian

Catherine Wanjiku Waruguru, popularly known as Cate Waruguru, is a Kenyan politician and theologian who previously served as Laikipia County Woman Representative. Her journey has taken her from theology and business management to Parliament and now into the race for higher political office.

Early Life and Education

Waruguru was born in Karatina, Mathira, Nyeri County, and raised in Giagatika village. She attended Kiriko Primary School, where she scored 346 out of 500 marks in the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE).

She later joined Kanyama High School and completed her secondary education in 2006.

A Theologian with a Business Background

Catherine Waruguru's academic journey combines theology, management, public relations and business. She holds a Diploma in Theology from Karatina Institute of Theological College, a Diploma in Management from the Kenya Institute of Management and a qualification in Public Relations Management.

She later earned a Bachelor of Business Management from Karatina University and pursued a Master's degree in Knowledge Management and Innovation.

Before Entering Politics

Before joining elective politics, Waruguru worked in the private sector. Between 2011 and 2013, she served as the Nanyuki Zone Manager at Access Kenya.

Her experience in management and public relations would later complement her political career and public leadership work.

Political Journey

Waruguru entered politics in 2013 after being nominated to the Laikipia County Assembly on a TNA ticket.

Her political career progressed in 2017 when she was elected Laikipia County Woman Representative on a Jubilee Party ticket, giving her a platform to represent the interests of women and residents of Laikipia at the national level.

Her Work in Parliament

During her time in Parliament, Waruguru served as Vice-Chairperson of the Members' Services and Facilities Committee. She also served as a member of the Departmental Committee on Lands.

Her legislative record included sponsoring the Kenya Cancer Fund Bill, 2018. Parliamentary records also list a Kenya Cancer Fund proposal in 2019 under her name.

She also raised issues concerning land, healthcare and development in Laikipia, including matters surrounding the issuance of title deeds to residents.

The 2022 Political Contest

In the 2022 General Election, Waruguru sought to move from the Woman Representative position to the Laikipia East parliamentary seat.

She lost the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) nomination to Amin Deddy. Mwangi Kiunjuri subsequently won the Laikipia East parliamentary seat.

Family

Catherine Waruguru is married to businessman Peter Njogu Waweru.

Eyeing the 2027 Laikipia Governor Race

In 2026, Waruguru is active in the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) and is seeking the party's ticket to contest the Laikipia gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election.

Her political journey, experience in Parliament, academic background and involvement in Laikipia affairs have positioned her as one of the politicians to watch as the 2027 political contest takes shape.

From Theology to Politics

Catherine Wanjiku Waruguru's story is one of a diverse professional journey. From studying theology and management to working in the private sector, serving in the County Assembly and later representing Laikipia in Parliament, she has built a career spanning religion, business, public service and politics.

As the 2027 General Election approaches, attention will be on whether she secures the DCP ticket and succeeds in her bid to become the next Governor of Laikipia County.