CS Rebecca Miano Crowned Kenya’s Most Impactful Woman
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Hon. Rebecca Miano has been ranked as the most impactful woman in Kenya, according to a new survey released by Microtrak Africa. Miano secured the top spot with an impressive 80 percent rating, cementing her position as a trailblazer in leadership and public service.
Following closely behind Miano is Vice Chairperson of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), who scored 76 percent, while Rose Mkalama, the Chief Executive Officer of the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC), claimed third place with 73 percent.
“Kenya has brilliant, transformative women. From our survey, we realized that women are excelling remarkably in their various spheres. CS Miano is a phenomenal woman whose impact is undeniable,” said the CEO of Microtrak Africa during the release of the report.
Rebecca Miano’s recognition comes as no surprise, given her trailblazing achievements in both the corporate and public sectors. She made history as the first woman to be appointed CEO of KenGen, Kenya’s leading energy producer. Her exemplary leadership there paved the way for her appointment to the Cabinet by President William Ruto, where she has served diligently in various capacities.
As the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Miano has introduced transformative measures aimed at positioning Kenya as a premier global tourism hub. Her recent initiatives include:
Launching new tourism circuits to diversify Kenya’s tourism offerings and attract more visitors.
Introducing compensation schemes for individuals affected by human-wildlife conflicts, promoting coexistence between communities and wildlife.
Unveiling the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Strategic Plan 2024–2028, which outlines a clear, accountable framework for wildlife conservation over the next five years.
Spearheading the Wildlife Research and Training Institute’s Strategic Plan 2023–2027 and the National Wildlife Training Agenda 2024–2033, both critical for sustainable conservation and capacity building in wildlife management.
Championing digital nomad work permits, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at attracting global remote workers to Kenya, positioning the country as a top destination for digital professionals and their families.
The survey also highlighted other women making significant contributions across various sectors:
Nyutu, Vice Chairperson of NCIC, has been at the forefront of peace-building efforts across the country, advocating for national unity and the elimination of tribalism.
Elizabeth Ndunge, Makueni’s CEC for Education and ICT, has played a vital role in uplifting education standards in the county, particularly for underprivileged children.
Faith Odhiambo, President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), was also recognized for her leadership in the legal sector.
Mary Muthoni, Principal Secretary for Health, and Chief Justice Martha Koome were among the other influential women featured in the rankings for their contributions to public service and judicial reforms.
The Microtrak Africa survey underscores the growing influence of Kenyan women in driving positive change across diverse sectors. From governance and law to energy, education, and conservation, these leaders are breaking barriers and setting new benchmarks for impact and excellence.