Dr. Mukhisa Kituyi is one of Kenya’s most distinguished leaders, with a career that straddles politics, economics, international diplomacy, and governance. From serving as a Cabinet minister to leading the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Kituyi has consistently positioned himself as a thought leader on matters of trade, investment, and economic justice.

In 2025, his name returned to Kenya’s political limelight after he was appointed as the spokesperson and Head of Secretariat for the United Opposition, signaling yet another chapter in his long and eventful journey. His influence also extends beyond Kenya, with whispers about his possible candidacy for the UN Secretary-General position in 2026.

Dr. Mukhisa Kituyi was born on 20 October 1956 in Bungoma County, Kenya. As of 2025, he is 68 years old. Raised in a rural setting, Kituyi’s upbringing instilled in him the values of education, resilience, and service to the community.

Dr. Kituyi has an impressive academic history, both in Kenya and abroad:

This academic foundation gave him a global outlook and positioned him for international leadership roles.

Dr. Kituyi entered active politics in the 1990s during Kenya’s multiparty democracy wave.

Although he lost his parliamentary seat in 2007, the defeat opened doors for his international career.

In 2013, Dr. Kituyi was appointed the Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). He became the first Kenyan to hold this prestigious role.

During his tenure (2013–2021), he championed:

He left UNCTAD in 2021, marking the end of a historic term.

In February 2025, Kituyi warned that Kenya’s high taxes, expensive energy, and excessive red tape were driving investors away to Tanzania. His remarks sparked heated debate.

Saboti MP Caleb Amisi has called on President Ruto to support Kituyi as Kenya’s candidate for the UN Secretary-General position in 2026.

Kituyi also weighed in on Raila Odinga’s African Union Commission bid, warning that Francophone countries might favor Djibouti’s candidate instead.

In September 2025, Kituyi was named spokesperson and Head of Secretariat for the United Opposition, a coalition unveiled by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka.

He is also battling a KSh 35 million debt case with Patrick Musimba, after the High Court dismissed his application to set aside a statutory demand.

Dr. Mukhisa Kituyi is married and has children. However, he maintains a private family life, rarely exposing his wife and children to media scrutiny.

Dr. Kituyi’s finances reflect both international success and domestic struggles.

As of 2025, his estimated net worth stands between KSh 150 million – 200 million.

Dr. Mukhisa Kituyi is a scholar, reformist, and diplomat. His legacy includes:

His latest role in the United Opposition suggests renewed political ambition, while his possible candidacy for UN Secretary-General in 2026 positions him as a leader with global relevance.