At just 26 years old, Hon. Umulkheir Harun made history in 2022 as one of Kenya’s youngest Members of Parliament. Today, as she campaigns for the Garissa County Women Representative seat ahead of the 2027 general election, she continues to demonstrate that leadership is defined not by age or privilege, but by impact, vision, and dedication to public service.
Early Life and the Roots of Leadership
Born and raised in southern Garissa County, Umulkheir fondly called “Umi” grew up in a family that deeply valued education. Her father, Harun Mohamed, a former principal of Garissa High School, instilled discipline, resilience, and a sense of purpose, traits that would shape her future in leadership.
In 2015, before entering national politics, she founded Kesho Alliance, an NGO focused on expanding access to education, empowering women and youth, and promoting peace and security in marginalized communities. Over the years, Kesho Alliance has partnered with international and local institutions including the European Union, ASPEN Institute, and regional peace networks to create meaningful impact across Kenya.
Rising Through Youth Leadership Platforms
Umulkheir’s influence has extended beyond Garissa. In 2019, she presented Kesho Alliance’s work at the European Parliament in Brussels and achieved second place in Miss President, a televised leadership competition designed to inspire more Kenyan women to pursue high political office.
Reflecting on her journey, she said:
“It was at Alliance High School that my dream began to take shape. Through school debates and politics, I saw a path to leadership and I decided to walk it.”
Her early achievements underscore a commitment to service and grassroots engagement, qualities that continue to define her political career.
Legislative Work and Advocacy
Since joining Parliament through the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), Umulkheir has focused on youth empowerment, education, digital inclusion, and marginalized communities.
Key initiatives include:
- Lobbying for the Youth, Women, and Disability Revolving Fund in Garissa
- Advocating for fair scholarship distribution under the Elimu Fund
- Supporting digital access initiatives, such as free Wi-Fi and tech donations to youth hubs
- Sponsoring the Kenya Sign Language Bill, which seeks to officially recognize Kenyan Sign Language in public education and government, improving access and dignity for the deaf community
Her legislative record reflects a hands-on, impact-driven approach to leadership.
Vision for Garissa Women Representative
With her sights set on the Garissa Women Representative seat, Umulkheir emphasizes that her campaign is more than politics it is a continuation of her mission:
“This is not just a political campaign; it’s a continuation of a cause. To create spaces where young people, women, and marginalized communities have equal opportunities to thrive.”
Her candidacy has attracted support from youth groups, civil society actors, and local leaders, who view her as a credible alternative in a political landscape often shaped by clan dynamics.
Redefining Leadership in Garissa
If elected, Umulkheir will bring youthful energy, progressive leadership, and service-driven governance to the Women Representative office. Her campaign represents a shift from traditional leadership defined by patronage to one defined by vision, impact, and inclusivity.
As the 2027 elections approach, Umulkheir Harun’s journey is not just a story of political ambition it is a symbol of a new generation ready to lead and a county prepared for transformation.