Mombasa County Governor Ali Hassan Joho is arguably one of the wealthiest politicians in the Coast region and Kenya at large.
What most people do not know is that Joho is a self-made billionaire who rose from grass to grace.
In the words of the late businessman-cum-politician billionaire Njenga Karume, Joho's story would correctly be described as 'from charcoal to gold'.
In an exclusive interview on Citizen TV on Friday night, the county boss revealed his journey to the billionaires club started early when he made his first million at the age of 20.
Joho, who celebrated his 43rd birthday last month, disclosed he hit the 'jackpot' when he acted as a clearing and forwarding agent in the shipping business and was paid handsomely.
"I started working at a very early age…my first transaction that changed my life, I was about 20 years old…and I remember I got a clearing and forwarding job and made Sh6.6m cheque," he said.
The county boss said although he had encountered a tough upbringing, that has never been an excuse for failure, noting hard work and commitment is what has brought him success.
"I had quite some challenging time growing up…it was not easy. What matters for me is what you are able to do for the future, not the past," added the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) deputy party leader.
Joho is serving his second and final term and is eyeing the presidency in 2022.