Zahra Bahlewa Moi is the wife of Gideon Kipsielei Moi, one of Kenya’s most prominent politicians and the son of former President Daniel arap Moi. Zahra first rose to public attention in the 1990s as the face of Lady Gay lotion, a beauty brand widely recognized across Kenya. Since then, she has carefully crafted a life that balances family, business, and social influence.
As the spouse of a high-profile politician, Zahra has remained largely private, choosing to focus on her education, business ventures, and family. She currently serves as the CEO of Lord Erroll Restaurant, one of Nairobi’s most exclusive gourmet dining spots, and has held several board positions in the tourism and hospitality sectors. Despite the spotlight on her husband, she maintains her own identity, combining elegance with discretion.
This profile dives deep into Zahra Bahlewa Moi’s early life, family, education, career, relationship with Gideon Moi, children, lifestyle, homes, cars, net worth rumours, social media presence, recent updates in 2025, and lesser-known facts that give a complete picture of her life.
Early Life and Background
Zahra Bahlewa was born in Kenya, though her exact date of birth has not been publicly disclosed. She is widely reported to be of African-Asian descent, a heritage that contributed to her distinctive beauty during her early modeling career.
In the 1990s, Zahra became a household name after appearing as the face of Lady Gay lotion, a popular beauty product in Kenya at the time. Her modeling work made her recognizable across the country, giving her a platform that would later help in business and social circles.
Despite the attention she gained as a model, Zahra kept her personal life private, and there is limited information on her childhood home or parents. Reports suggest she grew up in a supportive environment that allowed her access to quality education opportunities.
Family and Upbringing
Little is known about Zahra’s parents or siblings, as she has managed to keep her early life away from public scrutiny. What is clear is that her upbringing allowed her to pursue education and social development that would later shape her business acumen and public presence.
After marrying Gideon Moi, she became part of one of Kenya’s most influential families, combining her background with the prestige and scrutiny of political life. Despite this, she has maintained a low-profile approach, rarely participating in political debates or public controversies.
Education Journey
Zahra pursued formal higher education later in her life, demonstrating a commitment to personal growth and professional development. In 2015, she graduated from United States International University – Africa (USIU-Africa) with a Bachelor of Science in International Business Administration, earning Magna Cum Laude honours.
Her education did not stop there. Zahra reportedly attended executive courses abroad, including short programs in business management and international relations. These academic achievements have equipped her with skills that she applies in her business ventures and board positions.
Career, Business, and Public Life
Zahra’s career spans modeling, business, and governance. After gaining fame in the 1990s as a model, she transitioned to business leadership. Today, she is the Chief Executive Officer of Lord Erroll Restaurant, a high-end gourmet restaurant located in Runda, Nairobi.
The restaurant has become a landmark for Nairobi’s elite, hosting private parties, corporate events, and social gatherings. Under Zahra’s leadership, the establishment has been praised for its cuisine, service, and exclusivity.
Beyond hospitality, Zahra has served on the board of the Tourism Research Institute (TRI), highlighting her involvement in public service and governance. She was re-appointed to the TRI board in 2019, reflecting her credibility and trust in official circles.
Zahra has also been considered for other prominent board roles, including positions in private hospitals and tourism companies, though she has sometimes declined due to her existing commitments. These positions underscore her influence and recognition beyond her identity as a political spouse.
Relationship with Gideon Moi – Timeline, Marriage, Children
Zahra Bahlewa married Gideon Moi over 15 years ago. Their union is considered one of Kenya’s most stable among political families. Despite their different religious backgrounds — with Zahra reportedly being Muslim and Gideon Christian — their marriage has been described as harmonious and respectful.
They have appeared together at multiple public and family events, including weddings, official ceremonies, and private gatherings, consistently showing unity and mutual support. Their partnership balances Gideon’s political life with Zahra’s focus on family and business.
Children
Zahra and Gideon Moi have three children:
- Kigen Moi – the eldest son
- Kimoi Moi – the second son
- Lulu Moi – their daughter
Their children have grown into adulthood, with at least two already married. The family maintains privacy regarding education and personal lives, though their appearances at family events are well-documented. Reports suggest that the children have received exposure to international education, which is consistent with the family’s status and lifestyle.
Lifestyle, Homes, Cars, and Net Worth Rumours
Zahra and Gideon Moi live a discreet but luxurious lifestyle. They are linked to high-end estates in Nairobi, including Runda, where their residence and Zahra’s restaurant are located.
Zahra is known to drive premium vehicles, and her lifestyle reflects Kenya’s elite social circles. Their combined wealth is rumored to exceed KSh 50 billion, though this remains speculative. Their fortune is believed to come from property investments, business ventures, and political connections.
Despite their wealth, Zahra is described as elegant and understated, avoiding ostentatious displays while maintaining a high-profile social and professional presence.
Recent Updates / 2025 News
- In May 2025, the couple celebrated their son James Kimoi’s wedding, a widely covered event in Kenya’s media.
- Zahra continues to manage Lord Erroll Restaurant, keeping it among Nairobi’s top dining destinations.
- She maintains a low-key public profile, appearing mostly in family, social, and business contexts.
- There are no public controversies involving Zahra as of 2025, reflecting a careful and discreet lifestyle.
Social Media Handles & Presence
Zahra is not known to have a public social media presence. Most media coverage comes through her appearances at family events or professional engagements rather than personal posts. She prioritizes privacy, maintaining a controlled and selective public image.
Fun Facts / Lesser-Known Details
- Zahra was the face of Lady Gay lotion in the 1990s, remembered by many Kenyans today.
- She completed her university degree in 2015, demonstrating dedication to education later in life.
- Zahra is the CEO of Lord Erroll Restaurant, an exclusive dining venue in Nairobi.
- She has remained scandal-free despite being part of a high-profile political family.
- She was re-appointed to the Tourism Research Institute board in 2019, emphasizing her influence beyond the family name.
- Zahra declined a board position at The Nairobi Hospital due to time constraints.
- Her marriage with Gideon Moi spans over 15 years and is an interfaith union that remains stable.
- She prioritizes family, business, and discretion over public attention.
