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By Magdalene Wanja - Reporter
Kenya, 2 December 2025 - Chief Inspector Isaac Njiraini Muhia dreamt of becoming an advocate, his career path took a different direction, though within the precincts of justice.
His unwavering commitment to justice has continued to guide his path.
Every step he has taken reflects a deep passion for fairness, public service, and integrity.
His most recent accomplishments, graduating on top of his master's class and being the first person of African descent to earn this top honour, speaks volumes about his dedication, discipline, and pursuit of excellence.
Njiraini was born in the coastal city of Mombasa, Kenya, but his early life changed dramatically after the untimely death of his father.
This loss prompted the family to relocate to their rural home in Lari, Kiambu County.
As the second-born child, Njiraini was thrust into a position of responsibility at a young age, stepping into a leadership role alongside his elder sibling to support the family through difficult times.
He began his education in the village, attending school up to Grade 6.
In search of better opportunities, he later moved back to Mombasa to live with his aunt, where he joined Grade 7 at St Michael’s Kisauni Academy (now known as St Kelvin’s Academy).
After sitting his Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) in 2008, he was admitted to Moi Forces Academy in Mombasa, where he studied from 2009 to 2012 when he did his secondary exams.
“In 2013, I was admitted to Chuka University in Tharaka Nithi County to pursue a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminology and Security Studies. I graduated in 2017 with Second-Class Honours, Upper Division,” he recounts.
Following graduation, Njiraini chose a path of national service. In 2018, he enlisted in the National Police Service as a Police Constable.
He underwent rigorous training at the National Police College in Kiganjo, followed by advanced paramilitary training at the General Service Unit (GSU) Field Training Camp in Magadi.
This specialised training prepared him for deployment to a hardship posting, underscoring his commitment to duty.
His roles in the police service have been diverse and impactful, often requiring him to make difficult decisions.
“My experience with the National Police Service has been fulfilling. Since my first posting at Tot Police Station in Marakwet East, I have always yearned for better service delivery and the administration of justice,” says Njiraini.
While serving at Tot Police Station, he co-founded Askari Mashinani, a community-based organisation, together with colleagues.
They delivered lectures to young students in schools, churches, and the wider community, warning against the dangers of crime.
“We sensitised young boys and girls against cattle rustling, early marriages, and teenage pregnancies,” he adds.
He remained deliberate in pursuing his goals.
“I also attended the Basic Criminal Investigation Course conducted by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Iten. Over the years, I have served in several key capacities, including report office duties, cell sentry, station records, station anti-crime branch, multi-agency security operations, media liaison officer for the Kenya Police Football Club, and corporate communications for the National Police Service,” he says.
In 2022, Isaac’s unwavering dedication to personal development opened an extraordinary opportunity.
He was awarded a prestigious scholarship by the Government of India, through the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), to pursue a Master of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication at the Central University of Punjab.
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“The scholarship opportunity was advertised by Kenya’s Ministry of Education. I applied through the National Police Service and was fortunate to be selected. I left for India in September 2022 to begin the two-year Master’s programme,” he recalls.
For Njiraini, the transition to life in India was both exciting and challenging.
Leaving behind a young family, adjusting to a new culture, and undertaking full-time studies demanded deep sacrifice and resilience.
“The pursuit of education comes with challenges, especially choosing to be away from my young family and the comfort of home. But I remained focused on the goal,” he says.
Njiraini did not merely study. He immersed himself in university life.
He became an active voice for international students, serving on the International Students Committee and the University Mess Committee, representing peers from across Africa and Asia.
He understood the difficulties of living far from home and adapting to unfamiliar food and traditions.
“During my time on the committees, we advocated for better living conditions for international students. One key achievement was securing kitchen equipment for those residing on campus, enabling them to prepare home-cooked meals and feel a sense of comfort and familiarity,” he shares.
He also helped organise regular gatherings and celebrations for fellow international students—moments that brought joy to those far from home.
“We ensured every student’s birthday was recognised and celebrated. Sometimes I even baked the cakes myself. It was about creating a home away from home,” he says with a smile.
In 2023, Njiraini represented the Central University of Punjab as a foreign delegate at the National Youth Parliament (NYP), a prestigious competition among Indian universities.
The university emerged as national champion, earning the students an opportunity to present to Indian ministers and Members of Parliament at the Parliament of India in New Delhi.
This experience proved a career-defining moment, broadening Isaac’s global perspective and reinforcing the value of civic engagement.
In March 2025, Njiraini achieved a significant and inspiring milestone—one he proudly regards as among the greatest of his life.
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He graduated at the top of his class from the Central University of Punjab and was awarded the university’s highest academic distinction: the prestigious Gold Medal.
This accomplishment was not only personal but historic.
By earning this honour, Njiraini became the first African student to receive the Gold Medal since the university’s establishment.
His role model, he says, is anyone who, despite holding power and influence, places the interests of the less fortunate and vulnerable above their own.
"After my father’s death, my mother single-handedly raised us, often borrowing money and relying on government HELB loans to see me through university. The burden was immense, yet she never wavered," he says.
Now retired and in frail health his mother depends on her children to carry the responsibility she shouldered for so many years.
"The task is far from easy, but we are sustained by grace and gratitude.That is why I work tirelessly: to honour her sacrifice and to transform our family’s circumstances for good."
His future ambition is to advance to the next level of education while continuing to inspire others through servant leadership.
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