Who is Penina Malonza?

The National Assembly Committee on Appointments has rejected Peninah Malonza's nomination as Tourism Cabinet Secretary, citing that she did not demonstrate knowledge of topical, administrative and technical issues touching on the Ministry of Tourism.

"She lacked the requisite abilities and professional experience to be approved for appointment to the Office of the Cabinet Secretary," read the report tabled in Parliament on Tuesday, October 25.

Malonza's suitability will however be decided by the entire House, who might overrule the committee and approve her appointment.

At the vetting, Malonza declared a net worth or Sh300 million. She attributed her wealth to property in Mombasa, Kajiado and Kitui counties (Sh240 million), Sh30 million worth of shares in SACCOs, Sh20 million in livestock and farm produce and Sh3 million in vehicles.

Background

Born March7, 1974 Kitui County

Currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Public Health at the University of Nairobi

Holds a Master's Degree in Project Planning and Management from the University of Nairobi

Also holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Anthropology at the University of Nairobi

Undertook course in Economic Recovery Models at Kyungwoon University, Saemaul Academy

Also undertook course in Community Leadership MAS level 2 at the Global University, USA

Member of Kenya Association of Professional Counsellors having obtained a Diploma in Psychological Counselling

Was Deputy Governor for Kitui County between 2013 and 2017.

Served in various roles at Compassion International Kenya, rising to the level of Partner Training and Support Senior Director (2006-2013)

Project Director at Changamwe Baptist Church (2002 to 2006)

She also served as Project Coordinator at AMREF- Kenya.

Awarded the Order of Grand Warrior (OGW) in 2015.

Unsuccessfully contested for Kitui Woman Rep seat (2022)