Hassan Joho Defends Educational Background During Vetting

Mining Cabinet Secretary nominee, Hassan Joho, was put to task to explain his educational background during a vetting process, responding to questions from Suna East MP Junet Mohamed and Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah.

Ichung’wah, on a lighter note, commented on the public’s surprise that Joho could converse fluently in English, acknowledging Joho’s initial D- score in his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE). Joho, however, elaborated on his educational journey, highlighting his subsequent achievements, including attaining two degrees and currently pursuing a Master’s Degree at the prestigious Harvard Kennedy School of Government.

Joho’s Career and Educational Journey

Joho recounted his career path, explaining that his poor background necessitated him to start working before pursuing further education. He began with a bridging course in 2006 to qualify for university admission. In 2007, he completed a diploma which enabled him to join Kampala University, graduating in 2013. After his time at Kampala, Joho pursued another degree at Gretsa University in Thika, Kiambu County. He then enrolled in the public leadership credentials program at Harvard Kennedy School of Government.

“It’s common for people to have doubts about those from the Coast region, but we are just as qualified as any other Kenyan,” Joho remarked. He emphasized that his challenging background did not provide an environment conducive to educational success initially but highlighted his determination to overcome these obstacles.

Joho drew inspiration from the renowned scholar, Prof. Ali Mazrui, who did not succeed in his Cambridge examination but eventually became a prominent academic figure. He stressed the reality of historical struggles and the importance of recognizing that not everyone comes from a place of comfort.

Political Career and Achievements

Joho’s political journey began in 2004 when he joined active politics. He became the Kisauni party chairman for the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) between 2006 and 2007. In the 2007 general election, Joho was elected as the Kisauni MP through the ODM party ticket, serving in various committees, including Defense and Foreign Affairs. He also served as an assistant minister for Transport in late President Mwai Kibaki’s government.

In 2013, Joho vied for the Mombasa governorship and was declared the winner, a position he successfully defended in the 2017 elections. During the 2013 election, Joho garnered 132,583 votes against 94,905 votes of his closest rival, Suleiman Shahbal. In 2017, he achieved an even more decisive victory with 220,576 votes to Shahbal’s 69,322.

Joho opted not to vie for any seat in the 2022 general election, having been promised a cabinet position in the Azimio government. He was to be appointed as the Lands CS had Raila Odinga won the presidency.

Early Life and Education

Joho sat for his Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) at Tom Mboya Primary School in 1988. After spending a year at home, he joined Serani Secondary School, completing his secondary education in 1993 with a mean grade of D- (minus) in the KCSE. He later enrolled in a certificate course at Kampala University, which paved the way for further educational pursuits.

In 2008, Joho obtained a certificate in business administration, allowing him to enroll in a diploma course in human resource management at the same university. By 2009, he had met the requirements for a Bachelor of Business Administration degree.

Conclusion

Joho’s educational journey, marked by determination and resilience, underscores his commitment to personal and professional growth. Despite initial setbacks, his achievements reflect his dedication to overcoming adversity and contributing to public service.