Gift Osinya: Sonko’s Adopted Son Who Survived an Al-Shabaab Attack Graduates [Photos]

Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has celebrated a major milestone in the life of his adopted son, Gift Osinya, who has officially graduated from Scott Christian University. 

The accomplishment comes more than 10 years after he survived a terror attack that changed his life forever.

Sonko shared news of the graduation on Saturday, expressing deep gratitude and describing the moment as a powerful reminder of resilience and faith. 

The former governor said the young man’s life is a clear testimony of divine protection after surviving one of the darkest incidents witnessed in the country.

“Today is a reminder that God truly restores. Seeing Gift graduate is something only God could have written,” Sonko said in his emotional message.

Photos shared online showed Gift in academic regalia, standing proudly alongside relatives, friends, and supporters. 

Sonko noted that watching him complete his studies was a moment that brought joy and healing to everyone who followed his story over the years.

He further thanked those who had prayed for the family, supported the boys, and continuously encouraged them throughout their recovery.

“This is just the beginning. God’s hand remains upon him, and the future is bright,” Sonko added.

Gift and his younger brother, Satrine, came into national limelight on March 23, 2014, after armed militants invaded Joy Jesus Repentance Church in Likoni, Mombasa. 

The attack claimed multiple lives, including that of the boys’ mother, leaving them without a parent.

During the attack, Satrine—then barely two years old—was shot in the head. Gift, who was about 13 years old, acted with courage far beyond his age. 

He lifted his wounded brother and rushed outside to find help. Images of the young teen carrying his younger sibling quickly spread across the nation and touched millions.

The brothers were airlifted to Nairobi, where Satrine underwent a delicate surgery at Kenyatta National Hospital. 

Doctors successfully removed a bullet that had lodged in his skull, and he later regained stability.

After the incident, Sonko offered full support to the boys, took legal responsibility for them, and ensured they had a new home and proper schooling. 

Over the years, he has frequently shared their progress, birthday celebrations, school achievements, and moments of recovery.

Observers say Gift’s graduation represents not only academic success but also emotional triumph.

Those who know Gift describe him as calm, focused, and appreciative of the opportunities he has received. 

Teachers and former classmates say he worked hard, remained disciplined, and handled the weight of his past with maturity.

“He always carried himself with dignity, never seeking sympathy, and always working toward his goals,” said a family friend who attended the ceremony.

Sonko said Gift’s next chapter will be guided by purpose and prayer, adding that the young graduate aims to pursue opportunities that allow him to give back to society.

Many Kenyans continue to reflect on the Osinya brothers’ journey—a story that moved the country, united people across communities, and demonstrated how compassion and support can change lives.

Satrine, who was the youngest victim of the attack, is also said to be performing well in school and growing steadily.