Renowned Kakuma Philanthropist Cecilia Lawrence “Shangazi Wa Taifa” Declares Bid for Baringo Women Rep Seat on UDA Ticket
Last Updated on October 29, 2025 by PK Kasirim
Kakuma-based philanthropist and social activist Cecilia Lawrence, popularly known as “Shangazi Wa Taifa,”, has officially announced her intention to vie for the Baringo County Women Representative seat in the upcoming 2027 general elections on the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket.
Taking to her social media pages, the youthful philanthropist, famed for doing TikTok live with TikTok Stars Fardosa and Apoo, on Wednesday, 29th October unveiled a campaign poster emblazoned in UDA party colors, signaling her entry into active politics under President William Ruto’s party.
Shangazi, who has earned admiration across Kenya for her humanitarian work, first rose to public prominence in March after she was threatened to be arrested by authorities in Kakuma for helping the needy and supporting vulnerable families in the town and its outskirts allegedly without permission. The incident sparked widespread attention, with online supporters and rights activists rallying behind her. Following public pressure, the authorities eventually backed down, allowing her to continue her charitable initiatives.
Over the years, Shangazi Wa Taifa has used her vibrant social media presence, especially on TikTok, to mobilize resources for needy women, children, and families struggling in Kakuma. Her TikTok Live sessions, often filled with humor and compassion, have brought together thousands of Kenyans who contribute funds toward food, school fees, and basic necessities for vulnerable households.
Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. Shangazi was recently hosted by Citizen TV’s Lulu Hassan, where her story of resilience and community empowerment went viral. She has also collaborated with influential Kenyan content creators like Fardosa and Apoo, further amplifying her reach.
The trio has earned brand endorsements from several companies, including sponsorships to coastal destinations like Mombasa beach, where they represented the growing wave of young social changemakers in Kenya.
With her 2027 political bid, Shangazi aims to take her passion for social work to the national stage. If elected, she plans to champion women empowerment programs, education access for girls, and social inclusion across Baringo County, initiatives she has already been implementing on a smaller scale through her digital platforms.
Political observers say her entry into politics reflects a growing trend of young, media-savvy leaders leveraging online influence to transition into public office.
As the 2027 race begins to take shape, Shangazi Wa Taifa stands out as a fresh, grassroots-driven candidate with a strong digital following, blending philanthropy, activism, and modern political strategy in her journey to represent the women of Baringo County.
