Rebecca Miano, the former Cabinet Secretary for Trade, has been nominated by President Ruto for the position of Attorney General of Kenya. If confirmed, she will make history as the first woman to hold this role- a no mean feat.
Here are key facts About Rebecca Miano, who grew up in the lush Ndaragwa Constituency in Nyandarua Count.
1. Academic Background
Rebecca Miano, 58, has a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Nairobi. She then completed the Advocates Training Programme at the Kenya School of Law.
And she has a Master of Laws from the Australian National University.
2. Career
Miano, an active Law Society of Kenya member, has had a remarkable career life.
She has served in:
- KenGen: From 2017, she led KenGen Plc as its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, becoming the first female CEO of the largest electricity producer in East Africa.
- Kenyan Cabinet: She began as CS for East African Community, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs), and Regional Development in 2022. Later, she served as the Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade, and Industry.And she served until July 2024, when President Ruto fired all CSs amid Finance Bill protests.
3. Legal and Corporate Experience
Before her cabinet positions, Miano worked in both Kenya and Australia. She began at Musyoka Annan & Company Advocates in Nairobi and gained international experience at Slater and Gordon in Queensland. She joined KenGen in 1998, advancing from assistant legal officer to Acting Managing Director.
In June 2021, Miano served on the Advisory Council on Gender and Development for the World Bank Group.
4. Controversies and Challenges
Her tenure at KenGen was not without controversy. Miano was accused of financial misconduct over procurement and financial irregularities. And this contributed to increased energy costs and losses.
5. Recognition and Achievements
Miano has received several accolades, having won the Order of the Grand Warrior of Kenya in 2010.
She was the 2020 recipient of the African Inspirational Business Leadership Award for her leadership and corporate governance.
Miano is an active member of the Law Society of Kenya and the Institute of Certified Public Secretaries of Kenya.
By Vivian K.