Ruto Picks Ex-Uhuru Trade CS Phyllis Kandie as Economic Advisor

President William Ruto during a virtual meeting with TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew on August 24, 2023
President William Ruto during a virtual meeting with TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew on August 24, 2023
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Phyllis Kandie, a former Cabinet Secretary of Trade and Tourism during Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta's government, has been appointed Advisor at State House.

While celebrating her appointment on Tuesday, September 19, Kandie revealed that she had been offered the position of an Advisor on Commodities Market Development.

She noted that she will serve at Presidential Council of Economic Advisors which is chaired by Economist David Ndii.

"I would like to thank the President  for the honour he has bestowed on me to serve as his advisor, Commodities Market Development," Kandie stated.

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President William Ruto (Centre) and former Trade Cabinet Secretary Phyllis Kandie (Right) at the Nandi Investment Conference in Kapsabet on August 14, 2022.
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Kenya News Agency

Kandie stated that she will serve to the best of her ability while working closely with her colleagues to give better advisories to President William Ruto, especially on regulatory policies.

"I undertake to work diligently with all stakeholders to ensure that his vision to streamline the Agriculture sector by setting up a licensed, Regulated private sector led National Commodities Exchange that shall link the Farmer to both the domestic and international markets becomes a reality," Kandie stated.

In her role, Kandie will provide expert advice and counsel to the President on all matters related to the development of the commodities market. 

This includes advising on policies and regulations that will promote the growth and efficiency of the market, as well as on ways to mitigate risks and ensure the stability of the market.

Kandie has a deep understanding of the commodities market, as well as experience in government and the private sector due to her experience as a Cabinet Secretary for the East African Community Affairs. 

In the Presidential Council of Economic Advisors, Kandie will be tasked with the responsibility of staying abreast of the most recent market trends and developments, as well as with the role of identifying and analysing potential risks and opportunities.

She is expected to promote fair and open trade, and to ensure that Kenyan businesses have access to the resources they need to compete in the global marketplace.

As Cabinet Secretary for East African Community Affairs, Kandie initiated plans to expand trade among EAC member states. 

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Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta (Left), former Trade Cabinet Secretary Phyllis Kandie (Centre) and President William Ruto (Right) during nomination of Cabinet Secretaries in September 4, 2013.
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