Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, Council of Governors Chairperson Anne Waiguru, and media personality Lynn Ngugi emerged triumphant at the prestigious East Africa Women of Excellence Awards held on Friday, June 15.
The event, which celebrated outstanding female leadership across various sectors, saw Kenya clinch several top accolades, underscoring the nation's dominance in regional excellence.
Rebecca Miano, currently serving as the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry, was crowned Public Service Leader of the Year.
Since assuming office in October 2023, Miano has spearheaded President William Ruto's initiatives to boost investments in Kenya and expand market opportunities for Kenyan products abroad.
Miano's accolades extend beyond her current role, having been recognised as one of Africa's Top 100 Women CEOs and honoured with prestigious awards such as the Order of the Grand Warrior of Kenya (OGW) and the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS). Her leadership has been pivotal in shaping Kenya's economic and regional development landscape.
"This gives the impetus to give my heart and effort to do more, especially for all the girls who look upon the older women," remarked CS Miano as she received her award.
The competition was fierce, with Auditor-General Nancy Gathungu, renowned for her robust oversight and uncovering financial mismanagement in both national and county governments, securing the second runners-up position.
Monica Kathina Juma, currently serving as National Security Advisor, clinched third place, bolstering the strong representation of Kenyan women in critical public service roles.
Anne Waiguru, the Governor of Kirinyaga County, claimed the Political Trailblazer of the Year Award, a testament to her transformative leadership in local governance.
She was closely followed by Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti and Homabay Governor Gladys Wanga, who secured second and third place respectively in this hotly contested category.
"You let us commit to creating a world where every woman and girl can realise her full potential where her contributions are valued and where her rights are upheld," asserted Waiguru.
In the corporate sphere, Njeri Jomo, CEO of Jubilee Health Insurance Company, was named CEO of the Year for her outstanding stewardship since assuming the helm in 2022.
The competitive category also saw Sylvia Mulinge, CEO of MTN Uganda, and Annette Kmitei, CEO of SENACA East Africa, clinching the second and third spots, highlighting their contributions to the regional business landscape.
Media personality Lynn Ngugi, founder of the Lynn Ngugi Network, captured the Media Personality of the Year Award, celebrating her dynamic career journey from theatres in Nairobi to digital media prominence. Her victory points to the transformative power of digital platforms in shaping contemporary media landscapes.
Carren Kibett and Elizabeth Mutuku followed closely behind, rounding out the top three in this influential category.
President William Ruto's daughter, Charlene Ruto, was a runner-up in the Agricultural Champion of the Year.
The East Africa Women of Excellence Awards not only recognised individual achievements but also celebrated the collective impact of women leaders in driving socio-economic development across the region.
The event's emphasis on female empowerment and leadership serves as a beacon of inspiration for future generations aspiring to break barriers and excel in their respective fields.
