SHE MEANS BUSINESS| Nancy Baraza: How Raila lifted me after DCJ job loss & new chapter

Dr. Baraza, who made history as Kenya’s first female Deputy Chief Justice, was forced to leave office in 2012 following a much-publicized incident that she says was marred by “malice from some quarters.” More than a decade later, she reflects candidly on the ordeal and how she managed to rise above the noise.

“I was treated badly, yes—but I am resilient. I don’t let what others say about me bring me down. I love myself,” she says.

She recalls the comfortable life that came with her position—flying first class, having staff, and enjoying the prestige of high office—but insists she never allowed those trappings of power to define her. “That’s why I was able to survive after losing the job,” she explains.

Dr. Baraza, a lifelong activist and self-described “rabble-rouser,” leaned on her fighting spirit to rebuild her life. She transitioned into academia, becoming a university lecturer, and found solace in work and family. “I’ve never had to beg to survive,” she says proudly.

But her journey wasn’t without pain. She reveals that her late mother struggled deeply with the negativity and public humiliation surrounding her case, a burden she believes contributed to her death.

Today, Dr. Baraza lives a more peaceful life. She beams with pride when speaking of her son, Bien-Aimé Baraza of the award-winning band Sauti Sol, whose creativity and artistry she deeply admires.

Watch the full conversation on this week’s episode of She Means Business below.