Science, Strategy, and the Unwritten Rules of Leadership.
The official home of Cathy Irungu - Public Affairs Strategist, Global Advocate, and Author of Unwritten Political Rules.
A Scientist in the Public Square
Cathy Irungu is a study in unique intersections. A distinguished Kenyan public affairs strategist and entrepreneur, she brings a rare combination of scientific discipline and strategic foresight to the world of civic leadership. With a firm academic grounding in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from JKUAT, Cathy approaches societal problems with the precision of a scientist and the heart of a community mobilizer.
Her career is defined by a deep-seated commitment to transformation. From the village of NdimainΔ© to the corridors of international development, she has walked a path few dare to tread. Cathy entered the political arena as a young woman with a clear vision, thrice seeking elective office - campaigning for Nyeri County Woman Representative, MP for MathΔ©ra, and the Nairobi Senatorial seat. While these contests did not end in elected office, they placed her at the very center of Kenya's political discourse, offering her unparalleled insights into the costs of public accountability and the intricate dynamics of leadership.
Beyond the ballot box, Cathy's impact is global. She has led major initiatives with the EU, UNESCO, USAID, and UN Women, focusing on health systems, climate resilience, and economic recovery. As the founder of the African Food Security and Environmental Programme (AFSEP), she remains a tireless advocate for environmental justice.
Currently serving as the COMESA Countries Representative for the ACE Health Foundation and its Global Leaders of Excellence Network (AGLEN), Cathy works alongside global diplomats - including Ambassador Tatiana Gfoeller - to amplify the voices of African women in leadership.
Unwritten Political Rules
A Young Woman's Path in Kenyan Politics
The Synopsis
Long before society was ready for her kind of leadership, Cathy Irungu stepped into rooms where decisions were made, where pain, betrayal, and negotiations danced hand in hand, and where truth often fell silent.
Unwritten Political Rules is an unflinching account of a young woman's bold entry into the unforgiving world of Kenyan politics. In this deeply personal yet universally relevant narrative, Cathy reveals the raw costs of public service: the emotional scars, the psychological strain, and the cultural battles that women and young leaders must navigate.
Cathy speaks candidly about gender-based violence, not just as physical harm, but as the sum of silencing, shame, and social exclusion. She interrogates voter behavior, unpacks the dysfunction of political parties, and questions the true independence of electoral institutions.
This is more than a story; it is a rallying cry to every woman, every young person, and every citizen disillusioned by politics. Real change starts when good people stop waiting and start leading.
What Readers Are Saying
Don't just take our word for itβsee what others have to say
Dr. Sarah Mwangi
Political Analyst
βAn essential read for anyone interested in African politics. Cathy's insights are both profound and practical. This book demystifies the complex dynamics of political leadership.β
James Omondi
Policy Advisor
βUnwritten Political Rules is a game-changer. The strategies and real-world examples provide invaluable guidance for navigating political landscapes. Highly recommended!β
Grace Njeri
Women's Rights Advocate
βFinally, a book that addresses the unique challenges women face in politics. Cathy's perspective is refreshing, honest, and empowering. A must-read for aspiring female leaders.β
Prof. Michael Kamau
Political Science Professor
βA compelling narrative that bridges theory and practice. This book is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the real dynamics of political power in Kenya.β
Linda Wambui
Civil Society Leader
βBrutally honest and beautifully written. Cathy's experiences provide crucial insights for the next generation of leaders, especially young women entering public service.β
4.9/5.0
Based on 500+ reviews
A Note from Ambassador Tatiana Gfoeller
Excerpts from the Foreword
It is with deep admiration and a sense of responsibility that I write this foreword... This book is far more than a personal account. It is a living narrative of resilience, vision, and the kind of transformational leadership our world urgently needs.
The village of NdimainΔ© where this story begins is a powerful symbol. It represents countless places across the globe where challenges persist yet so does hope. What makes this journey remarkable is not just the distance traveled from village to city to international arenas but the clarity of purpose carried along the way.
As someone who has dedicated much of my career to mentoring future diplomats... I find her commitment and resilience very powerful. Her story invites us to rethink what it means to lead and to realize that the legitimacy of leadership is not granted by votes alone but also by service, truth, and authenticity.
Leadership Beyond Borders
ACE Health Foundation & ACE Global Leaders of Excellence Network (AGLEN)
As the COMESA Countries Representative, Cathy engages with leaders across government, civil society, and the private sector. Her work fosters collaboration and builds capacity to amplify the voices of African women, emphasizing equity, mentorship, and the power of collective impact.
AFSEP
African Food Security and Environmental Programme
Founder and advocate for sustainable agricultural practices and environmental justice across Kenya's 47 counties.
Learn More About Her Work
For collaboration opportunities, speaking engagements, or to learn more about Cathy's advocacy work
Special Thanks
Special thanks to the ACE Healthcare Foundation and the ACE Global Leaders of Excellence Network (AGLEN) for your support and commitment in advancing role of women in leadership.
Pooja Chandra Pama, your hand of friendship and global connections helped me dream bigger. Thank you.
Contact Cathy
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