On July 24, 2024, President William Ruto nominated John Mbadi as the new Cabinet Secretary for Treasury and National Planning.
This pivotal role will see Mbadi at the helm of Kenya's financial and economic planning, a responsibility that demands a wealth of experience and a solid educational background.
Let's delve into Mbadi's journey, his educational credentials, and his extensive career in public service and finance.
Educational Background
John Mbadi’s academic journey is marked by determination and excellence. His early education began at Ligongo Primary School, where he completed his Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) from 1979 to 1986. This foundational education set the stage for his future academic pursuits.
From 1987 to 1990, Mbadi attended Kokuro Boys Secondary School, where he earned his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE). His performance in secondary school paved the way for his admission to the University of Nairobi, one of Kenya’s premier institutions of higher learning.
At the University of Nairobi, Mbadi pursued a Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) degree from 1992 to 1996. This degree equipped him with essential knowledge and skills in business and commerce, laying a strong foundation for his future career.
In his quest for professional excellence, Mbadi also undertook self-study to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) between 1998 and 1999. This qualification further solidified his expertise in accounting and finance.
Mbadi’s commitment to continuous learning led him back to the University of Nairobi, where he earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from 2004 to 2007.
This advanced degree provided him with deeper insights into business management and strategic planning, preparing him for the complex challenges of public service and financial management.
Employment and Service History
John Mbadi’s career in public service and finance spans over two decades, marked by a steady rise through various roles that have honed his expertise and leadership skills.
His professional journey began shortly after completing his undergraduate studies. From 1996 to 1999, he served as an Assistant Accountant at the Student Welfare Authority.
This initial role allowed him to apply his academic knowledge in a practical setting and gain valuable experience in financial management.
In 1999, Mbadi joined the University of Nairobi as an Accountant. Over the next four years, he demonstrated exceptional competence and dedication, leading to his promotion to Senior Accountant in 2003.
In this role, he was responsible for overseeing financial operations and ensuring fiscal responsibility within the university, one of Kenya’s largest educational institutions.
Mbadi’s career took a significant leap in 2004 when he became the Finance Director for Medair East Africa’s South Sudan Programme.
Serving in this capacity until 2008, Mbadi was tasked with managing finances in a complex and challenging environment.
His role required not only financial acumen but also strategic planning and the ability to navigate the intricacies of working in a conflict-affected region. This experience was instrumental in shaping his understanding of international finance and development.
Political Career
John Mbadi’s entry into politics was marked by his election as the Member of Parliament for Gwassi Constituency in 2008.
This role provided him with a platform to influence national policy and advocate for his constituents.
During his tenure, he focused on issues such as education, infrastructure development, and public health, striving to improve the quality of life for the people of Gwassi.
In 2012, Mbadi’s political career saw him take on additional responsibilities when he was appointed as Assistant Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister.
In this role, he worked closely with senior government officials, contributing to policy development and implementation.
His tenure as Assistant Minister lasted until 2013, when he transitioned to represent Suba Constituency as a Member of Parliament.
From March 2013 to 2017, Mbadi served the people of Suba Constituency, continuing his focus on development and governance.
His efforts in Parliament were characterized by a commitment to transparency, accountability, and the effective use of public resources.
Since 2017, Mbadi has served as a Nominated Member of Parliament. This role has allowed him to bring his wealth of experience and expertise to the national stage, influencing legislation and policy on a broader scale.
A Suitable Nominee
John Mbadi’s extensive background in finance, governance, and public service makes him a fitting nominee for the role of Cabinet Secretary for Treasury and National Planning.
His academic achievements, coupled with his professional and political experience, provide him with a unique blend of skills and knowledge necessary for managing Kenya’s economic affairs.
Mbadi’s tenure as Finance Director for Medair East Africa, his roles at the University of Nairobi, and his various positions in Parliament have equipped him with a deep understanding of financial management, strategic planning, and policy development.
These experiences will be invaluable as he takes on the responsibility of overseeing the National Treasury and planning Kenya’s economic future.
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