Christopher Wanjau: Former NTSA Boss Behind Ruto's Digital ID Plan

National Registration Bureau head Christopher Kinyua Wanjau at his PhD graduation from Karatina University (left) and President William Ruto looking at a sample of Maisha Number at KICC on August 2023.
National Registration Bureau head Christopher Wanjau at his PhD graduation from Karatina University (left) and President William Ruto looking at a sample of Maisha Number at KICC on August 2023.
PCS
Christopher Wanjau

As President William Ruto's administration continues with the phased rollout of the new digital identity cards known as Maisha Namba, one man stands out for the execution of the plan which was initiated early in the year.

Having been appointed as the National Registration Bureau Secretary in January, Christopher Wanjau was tasked with overseeing the project which Ruto states will be revolutionary in the delivery of government services.

But who is this man? Who is Christopher Wanjau?

A photo collage of a sample of NTSA's digital driving licence (left) and the eCitizen platform (right).
A photo collage of a sample of NTSA's digital driving licence (left) and the eCitizen platform (right).
Photo
NTSA

Wanjau is the immediate former Motor Vehicle Registration and Licensing director at the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).

At the road safety agency, he was tasked with the organisation's critical operations including the processing of DLs.

Notably, he also played a big part in the rollout of the new smart DLs,  a factor which influenced the Ruto administration to put him at the helm of the agency responsible for the Maisha Namba.

Specifically, Wanjau is credited with overseeing the acquisition of the printing machines for digital driving licenses.

He also helped in the push to have NTSA services be offered at various Huduma Centers across the country.

Prior to joining NTSA, he served in various national government positions across counties including Kiambu.

In terms of his academic credentials, the senior government official holds a PhD in Strategic Management from Karatina University. He graduated on November 24, 2023.

He also holds a Master's Degree in Business Administration and Strategic Management from Catholic University and another Master's Degree in Public Administration from Moi University.

At his PhD Graduation ceremony, he underscored the importance of education noting that it unlocks many opportunities.

He also advised the youth to take advantage of various job opportunities to get work experience.

“No one should lie to you that having one diploma or degree is final. If resources are available, get two diplomas, an extra degree, or even a master's because having knowledge is something that cannot be snatched from you by anyone,” he stated.

“As much as there are constraints, never get tired of applying for jobs. That might be the opening of a great future.” 

President William Ruto speaking in Syokimau, Machakos County during the official launch of the Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies’ Microbiology Laboratory on November 22, 2023
President William Ruto speaking in Syokimau, Machakos County during the official launch of the Mission for Essential Drugs and Supplies’ Microbiology Laboratory on November 22, 2023
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