Once a prominent figure within the Jubilee Government of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, Mutahi Kagwe found himself thrust into the spotlight during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. He emerged as the prominent face driving the government’s efforts against the global disease that brought the world to a standstill.

Selected by Uhuru to lead the critical health docket, Kagwe stepped into the position after Sicily Kariuki was reassigned to the water and irrigation ministry. Uhuru’s decision to appoint Kagwe would later be acknowledged as one of his most astute choices. Globally acclaimed, Kagwe received accolades for his adept handling of the COVID-19 crisis. However, despite his remarkable performance, he did not retain his position under the presidency of William Ruto, who succeeded Uhuru.

Kagwe had previously served as the senator for Nyeri County from 2013 to 2017, when he narrowly lost the gubernatorial race. Before that, he held the position of information and communication minister under the late former President Mwai Kibaki. His tenure in this role is regarded as highly successful, notably marked by the inception of M-PESA.

With a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Nairobi, Kagwe also has a history as a former Mukuruweini Member of Parliament. He served a single term before being defeated by Kabando wa Kabando in 2007.

Following his departure from the Ruto administration, Kagwe returned to his origins – engaging in private consultancy endeavors. It was during this phase that he made a name for himself before his foray into the intricate realm of politics in 2002. Renowned as a Public Relations consultant, Kagwe expressed his contentment with his newfound occupation in a recent interview with a local publication. Nevertheless, he hinted at the possibility of reentering the political arena when the opportune moment arises in the future.