Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko said on Sunday, 11 October 2026, that Baby James, the orphan he took in after his father’s murder in Mathare, has completed Pre‑Primary 2 and is now entering Grade 1.

Sonko explained that the boy’s “remarkable intelligence” prompted him to enrol the child in an international school that follows the Cambridge curriculum.

The adoption followed a traumatic incident in January 2025 when Baby James, then three, witnessed his father being stabbed to death while walking him to school in Mathare Area 4.

Sonko intervened shortly after the killing, working with the Ruaraka Children’s Department and the Makadara Judiciary to formalise the adoption and arrange therapy for the child.

He also secured medical cover for Baby James, reported to be worth KSh 20 million, through AAR Insurance.

Earlier in 2026, members of the boy’s extended family from Kisii demanded his return, leading to a public dispute that was later resolved when the grandfather visited Sonko and the family agreed to allow open access while Sonko retained custody.

In his announcement, Sonko also appealed to witnesses of his father’s murder to continue cooperating with legal proceedings, urging the community to help secure justice for the child.

Social media users in Kenya responded positively, praising Baby James’ progress and Sonko’s support, including counselling and continued education.