Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture Mutahi Kagwe has been recognised with the Distinguished Leadership in Public Service Award during the 15th edition of the Brand Africa 100 unveiling ceremony. The prestigious award highlighted Kagwe’s outstanding role in transforming Kenya’s public health and digital infrastructure, particularly during his tenure as Cabinet Secretary for Health.
Presented at a ceremony held at The Capital Club in Nairobi, the award acknowledged Kagwe’s exemplary leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, where he chaired the National Response Committee. His proactive and transparent communication strategy, along with collaborative efforts involving multiple government agencies, helped steer the country through one of its most challenging health crises.
Kagwe, who also previously served as Minister for Information and Communications, was recognised for laying the groundwork for Kenya’s digital revolution. “I was recognised for my leadership in the public sector as representing something that added value to the people of Kenya,” he said after receiving the award. However, he was quick to share the honour with those he worked with. “This award that I got today goes very strongly to the teams that I have always worked with.”
He credited key figures in the Ministry of Health such as Dr. Patrick Amoth, Susan Mochache, and Dr. Mercy Mwangangi, along with thousands of frontline workers who played pivotal roles during the pandemic response. “I just symbolise the work that they did. This award belongs to them,” he added.
The event was a collaborative effort between Brand Africa, the Gina Din Group, and The Capital Club, bringing together leaders from government, business, media, and civil society. The Brand Africa 100 survey, now in its 15th year, is a respected consumer-led ranking conducted across 31 African countries, representing 85% of the continent’s population and GDP.
The 2025 edition also introduced the Brand Africa Hall of Fame, honouring brands and individuals with sustained excellence. A spokesperson from Brand Africa noted, “Great nations are built on strong institutions and trusted brands,” underscoring the importance of leadership in shaping Africa’s future.
