Ababu Namwamba, Kenya’s nominee for Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), has disclosed his net worth at Sh500 million.
During his vetting by the National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations, Namwamba detailed his assets, which include residential properties, business interests, shareholdings, and a pension.
This marks an increase of Sh75 million from two years ago, when he declared his net worth as Sh425 million during his vetting as Sports Cabinet Secretary.
“I own two residences, one in Nairobi and another in Busia, along with business interests, shareholdings, and a pension. These have contributed to my current net worth of Ksh. 500 million,” Namwamba stated.
While he did not reveal the exact dividends from his investments, Namwamba confirmed his shareholdings in major corporations such as Safaricom, Cooperative Bank, and Kenya Power.
“I have provided a statement regarding my income from these holdings. I have shares in Safaricom, Coop Bank, and Kenya Power. However, I have not disclosed specific dividend details because such information typically isn’t available until the relevant cycle is complete,” he explained.
Namwamba expressed confidence in his qualifications for the UNEP position, asserting that he is well-prepared to represent Kenya at the United Nations. He also shared insights into his discussions with President William Ruto before the nomination was made public.
“The President personally briefed me on this responsibility before it was announced. I am clear on what he expects of me in this role,” Namwamba said.
Namwamba’s nomination follows his dismissal in the June 2024 Cabinet reshuffle, which followed widespread protests.
He was nominated alongside three other distinguished individuals: former ICT Cabinet Secretary Margaret Nyambura Ndung’u, who is set to serve as High Commissioner to Ghana; Gertrude Angote, designated for Zimbabwe; and former Agriculture CS Andrew Karanja, who will become ambassador to Brazil.
However, the former ICT CS declined the nomination for personal reasons.
