It has become as much a part of the Kenyan exam calendar as the Education CS’s speech. When the KCSE results are released, Kenyans flock to X (formerly Twitter) not just to check their own scores, but to see which child of Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has aced the exams this year.

True to form, the "Bullfighter" did not disappoint. Moments after the 2025 results were announced, Khalwale posted a beaming tribute to his daughter, Melissa Khamwenyi Khalwale, who scored a solid B- (Minus) at St. Brigid’s High School, Kiminini.

The "Khalwale Academy"

"As my daughter Melissa shines all the way to the university, I want to thank God for the gift of my little girl," the Senator wrote. The post instantly went viral, with thousands of Kenyans offering congratulations—and the inevitable jokes about his prolific parenting.

• A History of Excellence: Khalwale’s track record is undeniable. In 2018, his daughter Linda scored an A-. In 2020, Engine Kukaste got a B+. In 2021, twins Flavia and Stephen scored A- and C+. In 2023, Gift Atubukha scored a B+. Melissa is just the latest star in what netizens have dubbed the "Khalwale Academy."
• The Meme Culture: "Every year there is a Khalwale candidate," joked one user. Another asked, "Does he have a school in his house?" The Senator takes the banter in stride, often engaging with followers to explain that he comes from a large family with a "twinning gene."
• Parental Goals: Beyond the memes, there is genuine admiration. Khalwale is seen as a present father who values education. In a country where politicians often hide their families or send them abroad, Khalwale’s pride in local schools (Alliance, Kakamega High, St. Brigid’s) resonates with the ordinary parent.

More Than Just Grades

For Khalwale, these posts are a celebration of legacy. They humanize a politician known for rough-and-tumble bullfighting. As Melissa prepares for university, the nation waits with bated breath for 2026... and the next Khalwale scholar.