Njeri Rionge, a highly successful and respected serial entrepreneur from Kenya, has sadly passed away at the age of 60. Rionge was known for co-founding multiple multi-million dollar companies, including Wananchi Group, East Africa’s first mass-market internet service provider.
During her career, Njeri Rionge made a significant impact on the business world. She played a key role in Wananchi Group’s success by focusing on providing affordable and reliable internet services to the mass market. This strategy helped Wananchi Group become one of the leading providers of internet and satellite TV services in East Africa.
Rionge’s entrepreneurial journey began at a young age. Growing up in a family of five, she was introduced to the concept of buying and selling by her farmer mother. At just 8 years old, she started her first business by selling yogurt to her classmates. This early experience ignited her passion for entrepreneurship and problem-solving.
After attending the International School of Kenya and Loretto Convent Musongari High School, Njeri Rionge pursued higher education in Canada. She obtained a degree in Business Administration and Management from the United States International University.
Rionge’s drive to create something new, solve problems, and make a difference in people’s lives motivated her throughout her career. She believed in seeing opportunities where others saw challenges and was not afraid to take risks. These qualities, along with her strong work ethic, contributed to her success as an entrepreneur.
In addition to her entrepreneurial endeavors, Njeri Rionge held key board positions in influential organizations such as Unilever Tea (Brooke Bond Kenya), the Institute of Directors (Kenya), the Internet Corporation of Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), the East African Tea Trade Association (EATTA), Ambulance Air Rescue (AAR) Holdings, and Wananchi Group.
Her contributions to entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment were widely recognized. In 2011, Forbes listed her as one of Africa’s most successful women. The following year, she received the Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW) from President Mwai Kibaki for her outstanding achievements.
Beyond her business achievements, Njeri Rionge recently embarked on a spiritual journey, sharing intriguing details on social media. However, this led to speculation and concerns, with some labeling the movement she embraced as a potential cult due to cryptic messages and symbols in her posts.
Njeri Rionge leaves behind a legacy of entrepreneurship and empowerment. Her dedication, innovation, and contribution to the business world have been an inspiration to many. She will be greatly missed.
The details surrounding her passing have not been disclosed at this time. We extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Njeri Rionge, the serial entrepreneur extraordinaire of Kenya.
