The nation is still reeling from the shock of having to bid farewell to one of the most consequential politician, Raila Amolo Odinga.
Raila died on October 15 while receiving treatment in Kochi City, India. Immediately after President William Ruto confirmed Raila’s demise to the nation, preparations began in earnest to bring the mortal remains of a man Nigerian author Babafemi Badejo described as ‘The Enigma of Kenyan Politics’ in a 2006 biography home.
Raila’s body touched down at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on October 16 morning, and was received by thousands of Kenyans, led by President Ruto, his predecessor Uhuru Kenyatta and the Odinga family.
Oparanya ‘sets tongues wagging’
On October 17, the government held a State Funeral Service of the late Raila at a fully-packed Nyayo National Stadium. But as State officials, politicians and other dignitaries made their way into the stadium, one sight was conspicous—that of Cooperatives and MSMEs Development Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya.
On that occassion, the usual hawk-eyed Kenyans could not help but spot Oparanya walking side by side with a beautiful lady dressed in an official blue suit.
Kenyans, in their usual element, started speculating who the lady was. The fact that CS Oparanya has made public that he is a polygamous man did not do any favours.
Who’s the lady pictured with Oparanya?
But to cut the story short, the lady is called Ruth Mueni Mukhwana. She is the Head of Protocol and Events Coordination in the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSMEs Development.
In her capacity, Ruth handles CS Oparanya’s schedule and programs, and that explains why she always appears with him in public functions.
A distinguished public communication and advocacy practitioner, Ruth has garnered over seven years of experience in brand building, corporate communication, and fund development, collaborating with government entities, corporations, and non-governmental organizations.
Her roles involve enhancing communication strategies to support cooperative movements and the growth of MSMEs in Kenya.
Youth empowerment advocacy
She actively champions youth causes across the continent, emphasizing education, empowerment, and social justice through her role as the founder of “Hopes, Dreams & Dignity,” an initiative aimed at inspiring and uplifting youth. Her efforts earned her a spot among the 40 Under 40 Africa Award recipients.
Additionally, she holds the position of East Africa Regional Coordinator for the AfCFTA Young Entrepreneurs initiative, further showcasing her leadership in fostering economic development among youth.
Her dedication and impact have been recognized with the “40 Under 40 Africa Award,” celebrating her as one of the continent’s influential young leaders. Currently, she has been nominated for the Pan-African Youth Leadership Award and recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Young Africans.
Ruth has served under two Heads of State. She was honoured with the Head of State Commendation (HSC) by President Uhuru Kenyatta, acknowledging her outstanding contributions to the nation.
Achievements
- Honored with the Head of State Commendation (HSC) by former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
- Founded “Hopes, Dreams & Dignity,” an initiative aimed at inspiring and uplifting youth.
- Recognized as one of the 50 Most Influential Women in Kenya in the Youth category.
- Recognized with the “40 Under 40 Africa Award,” celebrating her as one of the continent’s influential young leaders.
- Currently, nominated for the Pan-African Youth Leadership Award and recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential Young Africans.
She also champions the Menstrual Hygiene Programme across Africa.
By Michael Majanga
