Mike Sonko took to social media with a touching message to celebrate his adopted son, Gift Osinya, as he turned 24. The moment wasn’t just about marking another year—it was a reflection of how far they’ve come since fate brought them together in 2014.
Gift’s story is one many Kenyans remember. He was just six years old when a terror attack at a church in Likoni claimed his mother’s life. A powerful image showed him carrying his bleeding younger brother, Satrine, and it quickly spread across the country, prompting Sonko to step in immediately. He welcomed both boys into his home, promising to give them a better future.
Now, a decade later, Sonko is celebrating the man Gift has become. From Bethlehem Academy in Ruiru, to Lenana School, and now at Scots University, he’s set to graduate with a degree in Information Technology this September. He’s also preparing to pursue a master’s degree at Brighton University in the UK.
“Watching him grow into a strong, kind, and graceful young man has been a true blessing to my family,” Sonko wrote in part of his tribute.
His wife, Primrose Mbuvi, also joined in with her own message: “Happy birthday to my wonderful son! Watching you grow has been the greatest joy of my life.”
Gift’s younger brother Satrine is now in Grade 7 at St. Mary’s School, still under the loving care of the Sonko family.
Many Kenyans flooded the comments with praise, applauding the family for keeping their promise and seeing the boys through their healing and growth.
