Kamau Thugge

The former IMF senior economist has had an impactful 2024, thanks to his work as the governor of the Central Bank of Kenya.

Since taking office in June 2023, Thugge has played a key role in shaping the Kenyan financial landscape.

Under his stewardship, the economist, who is the 10th governor of the Central Bank of Kenya, oversaw the stabilising of Kenyan markets and the strengthening of the Kenyan shilling, which has held steady at KSh129 against the intimidating US Dollar.

Born in 1957, Thugge is a brilliant mind in terms of finance and economics, having received extensive training during his studying years. Not only does he hold a Bachelor of Arts degree from Colorado College, but he also obtained his Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in economics from Johns Hopkins University in the United States. 

His career started at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), before serving as the Principal Secretary at the National Treasury (2013-2019) under President Uhuru Kenyatta.

Before that, between 2004 and 2008, Thugge previously served in the Ministry of Finance as Head of Fiscal and Monetary Affairs, Economic Secretary and Senior Economic Advisor.

Recently, thanks to his work as the CBK governor, Thugge was recognised as the African Banker Central Bank Governor of the Year, by the respected African Banker Magazine.

The award is given to individuals who have contributed significantly to the reform, modernisation and expansion of Africa’s banking and financial sector while driving the continent’s sustained economic growth. His pivotal position has played a crucial part in helping restore faith in the Kenyan economy.