Ababu Namwamba shares money lessons after making first million in his twenties
By Paulette Mboga, September 20, 2026Kenya’s High Commissioner to the Republic of Uganda Ababu Namwamba has shared money lessons from his early years, revealing that he made his first million in his twenties after starting work at a young age.
Namwamba said he began working while still at university and secured a position at a law firm during his second year. He said the opportunity allowed him to start earning money before completing his law studies.
“I made my first millions in my twenties. I started working at a very young age. I started working in a law firm in my second year in University. I was even able to buy my first car before graduating law school,” Namwamba said on Saturday, September 19, 2026, during an interview with Young Millionaire Talks on Instagram.
The former Sports Cabinet Secretary said his early experiences shaped how he views money and the opportunities available to people. He encouraged people to take advantage of opportunities to make money while ensuring that their income is earned honestly.
“When you have an opportunity to make money. Make money honestly,” Namwamba said.
Namwamba also spoke about his family background and the effort his parents made to educate their children. He said his parents struggled to raise eight children and ensure that they all went to school.
Money lessons and investments
The former CS said his parents have since died, remembering them while acknowledging the role they played in raising their children. He said their struggles did not stop him from believing that people can work towards achieving their goals.
“I watched my parents struggle to raise us to send 8 of us to school. They have since rested; God bless their souls,” Namwamba said.
Namwamba said he believes people should not allow their backgrounds to stop them from pursuing financial goals. He said having belief in oneself can create the drive needed to compete and work towards success.
“I believe all of us are born at the same point in life. When you believe, no matter what my background is, I wanna race,” Namwamba said.
He also shared some of the ways he has chosen to invest the money he has made. Namwamba said land and other investment options form part of his approach to managing his finances.
“I have invested in land, so real estate is important for me. Invest in stocks. I invest in money market funds,” Namwamba said.