Inside the elite panel steering the Eliud Owalo Foundation

When the Eliud Owalo Foundation (EOF) was launched on November 8, 2025, at Nairobi’s Emara Ole Sereni Hotel, the event signaled more than the unveiling of a philanthropic vision.

It also introduced a formidable leadership team, a convergence of Kenya’s finest minds, united by a shared commitment to transform lives across the country and beyond.

At the heart of this mission is the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, an assembly of eminent professionals drawn from diplomacy, law, economics, academia, governance, gender advocacy, business, and sports.

Their collective experience and integrity reflect the Foundation’s inclusive and results-driven philosophy.

The Board reads like a roll call of Kenyan excellence; individuals whose contributions have shaped policy, governance, and development over the years.

Among them is Chris Mensah, former Secretary to the Governing Council of UN-Habitat, who brings a wealth of expertise in governance, diplomacy, and institutional reform.

Justice Joyce Aluoch (Ret.), former First Vice-President of the International Criminal Court (ICC), adds global experience in justice, mediation, and governance.

Pioneering banker Dr. Mary Okelo, founder of the Kenya Women’s Finance Trust (KWFT), joins the Board with her lifelong commitment to women’s empowerment through enterprise and education.

Dr. Esther Koimett, a seasoned public servant and investment policy expert, brings decades of experience in economic reform and public sector transformation.

Also on the Board is Ambassador Raychelle Omamo (SC), Kenya’s former Cabinet Secretary for Defence and Foreign Affairs, renowned for her advocacy on women, peace, and security.

Ambassador Philip Thigo, Kenya’s Special Envoy on Technology and a UN High-Level AI Advisor, will guide the Foundation’s innovation and digital policy agenda.

Adding to the global perspective is Phyllis Wakiaga, Global Lead for Industry and Commerce at the Tony Blair Institute, known for advancing sustainable industrialisation and fostering public-private partnerships.

Angela Wamola, Head of Sub-Saharan Africa at GSMA, brings extensive experience in Africa’s digital transformation and gender inclusion in technology.

In academia, Prof. Hazel Miseda Mumbo, Vice Chancellor of Great Lakes University of Kisumu (GLUK), continues to champion gender equity, academic innovation, and leadership development.

The Board also includes distinguished diplomats and sports icons whose achievements have earned Kenya international recognition.

Among them are Ambassador Peter Nicholas Oginga Ogego, former envoy to the U.S., Canada, and Saudi Arabia; Ambassador Dr. Joseph Magutt, academic and former Ambassador to Germany; and Ambassador Michael Adipo Okoth Oyugi.

Oyugi is a career diplomat with more than 40 years of service across major UN agencies.

Others include Eng. Jude Loveday, Kenya’s Honorary Consul to Seychelles and Director of Professional Consultants Ltd; Dr. Joseph “JJ” Masiga, celebrated dual-sport legend and dental surgeon; Nahashon “Lule” Oluoch.

Oluoch is the former Gor Mahia footballer and sports administrator; Ronnie Owino, a renowned basketball coach and FIBA instructor; and Humphrey Kayange, IOC Member and Chair of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games Commission are part of the team.

Together, the Board of Trustees will spearhead the implementation of the Eliud Owalo Foundation’s Strategic Plan (2025–2030), focusing on five key pillars: education, economic empowerment, healthcare, climate action, and ICT-driven community development.

“With this distinguished team, we are building a Foundation that reflects hope, discipline, and opportunity — one community at a time,” said Mr. Eliud Owalo, the Foundation’s Patron and Founder.

A respected Economist, Public Policy Expert, and Philanthropist, Mr. Owalo currently serves as Deputy Chief of Staff for Delivery and Government Efficiency in the Office of the President.

He previously served as ICT and the Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary, and has more than two decades of leadership experience in public service and consultancy.

With such a distinguished team at the helm, the Eliud Owalo Foundation is poised to become a beacon of empowerment, visionary leadership, and sustainable transformation, shaping a legacy that will inspire generations to come.