Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has marked his 37th birthday with an emotional tribute to his mother, crediting her sacrifices, determination and religious teachings for helping him overcome the challenges of his early life.
In a heartfelt message shared on Instagram on Saturday, October 10, 2026, the legislator shifted attention away from himself and used the occasion to recognise the woman he says played a central role in shaping his future.
Owino reflected on the difficult circumstances his mother endured while raising him, particularly their life in the slums, where she struggled to provide for the family.
The MP disclosed that his mother sold chang’aa to support the household, describing the sacrifices she made as part of her efforts to give him a better future.
“Mum, you sold chang’aa in the slums, made sacrifices that the world may never fully understand, and did everything within your power to give me a better life,” he wrote.
He acknowledged that his journey had been shaped by the determination of a woman who continued to support him despite the hardships they faced.
According to Owino, his mother’s refusal to give up on him helped create opportunities that might otherwise have been difficult to achieve.
“You carried burdens silently so I could have a chance at a brighter future. If I have come this far, it is because you refused to give up on me,” he added.
The legislator’s message placed his mother’s struggles at the centre of his birthday celebration, presenting his achievements as a reflection of the sacrifices she made during his upbringing.
Owino credits his mother for his faith
Beyond her efforts to provide for the family, Owino also recognised his mother’s influence on his spiritual life.
He said she introduced him to God, a foundation he credits with helping him find strength during difficult periods.
“You also introduced me to God, and He has been my anchor through every storm, every struggle, and every victory,” he wrote.
The MP explained that his mother did more than give him life. Through her teachings, she helped him identify a source of strength that he says has remained important throughout his personal journey.
His tribute highlighted two aspects of her influence: the sacrifices she made to improve his circumstances and the religious values she instilled in him.
Birthday message puts his mother first
As he celebrated another year of life, Owino said the occasion was also an opportunity to celebrate his mother and acknowledge her contribution to his journey.
Rather than making the birthday message solely about his personal achievements, he used it to express gratitude to the woman who raised him.
“Today, as I celebrate my birthday, I celebrate you too. Mum, I celebrate myself, but I honour you first,” he wrote.
The message offered a glimpse into the personal experiences the MP associates with his upbringing, particularly the financial difficulties his family faced and the role his mother played in helping him pursue a better life.
His tribute ultimately presented his birthday as an occasion to recognise the person he believes deserves much of the credit for his journey.
By acknowledging her sacrifices publicly, Owino turned his birthday celebration into a message of gratitude to his mother, highlighting the lasting influence of parental support, resilience and faith.