Ezra Chiloba: I'm worth Sh800 million

Former Communications Authority Director-General Ezra Chiloba has revealed that his net worth stands at Sh800 million.

Chiloba made this disclosure while appearing before the National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations for vetting on Thursday, April 11.

His appearance followed his nomination by President William Ruto to serve as Kenya’s Consul-General in Los Angeles, USA.

Chiloba informed the vetting panel that he began income-generating activities at a young age, leading to the early accumulation of wealth. Over time, he has diversified his revenue streams, some from his avocado farm in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County.

The soon-to-be diplomat, should he be approved by the committee, also stated that he manages business investments, the returns of which contribute to his overall net worth.

Additionally, despite resigning as the Director-General of the Communications Authority of Kenya, Chiloba continues to receive income from consultancy services.

He gained national prominence in 2017 during his tenure as Chief Executive Officer of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), where he played a pivotal role in the contentious presidential elections. His leadership saw Uhuru Kenyatta secure a second term as president, while Raila Odinga returned to the opposition.

Following his suspension and subsequent dismissal in June 2020 over procurement irregularities at IEBC, Chiloba withdrew from the public sphere. He however resurfaced as Director-General of the Communications Authority, appointed by former President Kenyatta in preparation for the 2022 General Election.

In October 2023, Chiloba resigned amid accusations of mismanaging the staff mortgage scheme. The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has however cleared him of wrongdoing due to lack of evidence.