Ababu Namwamba, Kenya’s nominee for Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), has declared his net worth to be Ksh.500 million.
He made this disclosure on Friday during his vetting by the National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations.
Namwamba explained that his wealth includes residential properties, business interests, shares, and a pension.
This marks an increase of Ksh.75 million from two years ago when he declared a net worth of Ksh.425 million during his vetting for the position of Sports Cabinet Secretary.
“I own two homes, one in Nairobi and another in Busia. I also have business interests, shareholdings, and a pension. Altogether, these add up to Ksh.500 million,” Namwamba stated.
He revealed that his investments include shares in prominent companies like Safaricom, Cooperative Bank, and Kenya Power.
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However, he did not provide specific figures for his dividends.
“While I have indicated my income sources, it is difficult to give exact dividend amounts as they change depending on the financial cycles,” he explained.
The UNEP role
Namwamba expressed confidence in his ability to take on the UNEP role. He described himself as well-prepared to represent Kenya on the global stage.
He credited President William Ruto for providing him with clear guidance during a meeting at State House, Nairobi, before the public announcement of his nomination.
“The President clearly explained the responsibilities of this role before making it public. I fully understand what is expected of me,” Namwamba affirmed.
His nomination comes as part of a broader diplomatic reshuffle. Other nominees include
- Former ICT Cabinet Secretary Margaret Nyambura Ndung’u as High Commissioner to Ghana,
- Gertrude Angote as High Commissioner to Zimbabwe,
- Former Agriculture CS Andrew Karanja as Kenya’s Ambassador to Brazil.
However, former ICT Cabinet Secretary Margaret Nyambura Ndung’u has declined her posting to Ghana, citing personal reasons.
As Namwamba awaits parliamentary approval, he has expressed a strong commitment to elevating Kenya’s diplomatic presence.
With his vast experience and the President’s endorsement, he appears ready to make a meaningful impact at UNEP.
