Biography
Ndiritu Muriithi is a distinguished Kenyan politician and investment professional with over 20 years of experience in public and private sector leadership. He served as the second Governor of Laikipia County, leaving a legacy of transformative governance and development.
Education Background
Ndiritu’s academic journey began at Shamanei Primary School and continued to Kagumo High School. He later attended the prestigious Alliance High School for his A-levels in 1984-85.
In 1990, he graduated with a degree in Business Administration from St. Francis Xavier University in Canada. To further his expertise, he pursued a Master’s degree in Project Management at the University of Technology, Sydney, completing his studies in 1994-1995.
Political Journey
Ndiritu Muriithi’s political career began when he served as the Member of Parliament for Laikipia West Constituency from January 2008 to February 2013. During this time, he was appointed Industrialization Assistant Minister under President Mwai Kibaki’s government, where he played a significant role in Kenya’s industrial development.
In 2017, Muriithi ran as an independent candidate for the Laikipia governorship after failing to secure the Jubilee Party ticket. Despite challenges, including a lawsuit over the use of President Kenyatta’s portrait in his campaign posters, he triumphed and served as Governor from August 2017 to August 2022.
As Governor, Muriithi championed policies aimed at economic growth, improved infrastructure, and enhanced service delivery. However, he lost the 2022 Laikipia gubernatorial race to Joshua Irungu.
In addition to his political achievements, Muriithi worked with the African Union to establish the Africa Audio Visual and Cinema Commission, promoting African content globally. He was also appointed by former President Uhuru Kenyatta as a director in the Policy Compensations Fund.
Professional Career
Before entering politics, Ndiritu Muriithi had an illustrious career as an Investment Professional at the International Finance Corporation (IFC) from 1999 to 2007. In this role, he facilitated the growth and diversification of the private sector in emerging markets, focusing on the energy and infrastructure sectors.
Between June 2013 and February 2017, he was a Partner at Ecocapp Capital, a Nairobi-based investment firm. After his tenure as Governor, he resumed his professional career and, in September 2022, became the Managing Partner at Ecocapp Capital. Here, he leads a team of professionals committed to delivering sustainable, profitable returns while contributing to Africa’s social and environmental development.
Family
Ndiritu Muriithi is the nephew of the late President Mwai Kibaki, one of Kenya’s most revered leaders. He is married to Maria Mbeneka, a seasoned lawyer, and together they have demonstrated a commitment to public service and nation-building.
With his blend of political acumen and professional expertise, Ndiritu Muriithi continues to inspire many as a leader dedicated to transforming lives and fostering sustainable development in Kenya and beyond.
