How Henry Rotich’s childhood shaped career in Cabinet Secretary to the National Treasury

By Faith Rono

Born to peasant parents and raised in a humble background, Henry Rotich climbed up the ranks to be one of Kenya’s prominent scholars.

Rotich has kept a low profile throughout his career even as he handled some of the country’s most prestigious public service jobs.

It was a surprise to many when this self effacing professional was thrust into the public limelight when President Uhuru Kenyatta pronounced him Cabinet Secretary to the National Treasury — one of the most plum positions in the government

Rotich had to contend with the daunting challenges in the Kerio Valley during his childhood.

He went to Fluorspar Primary School in Keiyo South District where he was the top student. He joined saint Joseph’s High School for his secondary school studies.

Rotich qualified to join the University of Nairobi for a Bachelors Degree in Economics and graduated with a First Class Honours.

Prior to joining the Ministry of Finance, he had worked at the Central Bank of Kenya since 1994, later becoming the Head of Macroeconomics at the Treasury from March 2006.

Rotich was instrumental in formulating macroeconomic policies that ensured an affordable and sustainable path in public spending.

His father, Rotich Kimatui attributes his son’s success to sustained discipline and respect from an early age.

He says of his son, “He was a student to reckon with, always committed to his books and home chores.”

The Senior Rotich says his son had a passion for economics and accounting as he grew up, making him best suited for the challenging position where he will take care of the nation’s coffers.

What the rule says

“Henry was not the type of students who send letters home requesting for extra money for his upkeep while in school,” the old man recalls.

 He says Rotich could account for every single cent given to him and make savings as well.

When we visited the family at their Kaptich home in the wake of his nomination recently, friends and relatives were in a celebratory mood with most of them abandoning their daily chores to join Rotich’s family in congratulating him.

“We had been anticipating the unveiling of the Cabinet Secretaries, but it never occurred to us that Rotich’s name would make the list,” said Josphat Komen, a neighbour.

Komen said Rotich was actively involved in various community projects that helped transform many who benefited from such initiatives.

“He could advise us to form groups and provide the little money he could to support our business ventures besides helping the needy in the community,” says Komen.

Rotich’s mother, Pauline says her son’s leadership skills were clearly manifested when he was awarded the Cane of Honour while serving as an officer at the National Youth Service.

She says news of her son’s nomination reached her with a lot of surprise and disbelief. “Several friends and family members made calls to inform me of the development,” she reminisces.

“At first I could not believe the news was true. I had to suspend my errands and rush to a nearby hotel to catch a glimpse of the breaking news,” she narrates.

You should see the expression in her eyes as she adulates her son. It is all joy and happiness as she talks of his achievements.

Mrs Rotich, 70, is grateful to God, saying her son’s nomination was an honour to all the people of Elgeyo Marakwet.

Rotich is tasked with transforming the economy of the country. It is a daunting task, but one where he hopes to excel.