Agnes Kagure is among the leading contenders in the Nairobi governor race, coming second with 21.5 percent support in the latest Mizani Africa tracking poll released on March 17, 2026. The survey shows a tight contest with no clear frontrunner, pointing to a highly competitive race ahead.
The poll places Babu Owino at the top with 24.3 percent support under the ODM Linda Mwananchi wing.
Kagure, running on the Kenya Patriots Party (KPP) ticket, follows closely behind, showing strong early backing among likely voters. James Gakuya comes in third with 18.1 percent under the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), while the current governor Johnson Sakaja ranks fourth at 16.6 percent. This position suggests that Sakaja faces a serious challenge as he seeks another term.
Other candidates are further behind in the poll. George Aladwa has 7.3 percent, while Irungu Nyakera stands at 2.7 percent.
Courtesy Photo | Mizani Africa.
Ronald Karauri has 0.9 percent, and Dennis Waweru records 0.7 percent. A notable 7.9 percent of voters remain undecided, a group that could influence the final outcome as campaigns progress.
The survey asked voters a simple question about who they would choose if elections were held today. The results reflect a divided field, with several candidates drawing support from different groups across the city. Mizani Africa notes that the race remains open, and no candidate has created a strong lead at this stage.
Nairobi’s governor race carries weight because the county serves as Kenya’s capital and main economic center.
Residents often focus on issues such as traffic, waste management, safety, job opportunities, and access to services. These concerns are shaping early campaign messages, especially from challengers who are trying to appeal to voters looking for change.
Kagure, known for her business background and political involvement, has built her campaign around practical solutions for the city. Her position in the poll shows that she is within reach of the top spot. With a small gap separating her from the leader, any shift in support could quickly change the rankings.
Candidates like Babu Owino and James Gakuya are also gaining ground by addressing everyday challenges facing Nairobi residents. Sakaja, on the other hand, will need to defend his record while trying to reconnect with voters who may be uncertain about his performance so far.
The undecided voters remain an important factor. Their choices in the coming months could reshape the race, especially in a contest where the top four candidates are separated by a relatively small margin.
This poll offers an early look at voter opinion, but it does not settle the race. Campaign activities, public debates, and policy proposals will likely influence how support shifts over time.
The Nairobi governor race appears competitive, with several candidates, including Kagure, in a strong position as they work to win over more voters.
