The National Assembly Departmental Committee on Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives Friday concluded the vetting of Regina Akoth Ombam, who has been nominated for the position of Principal Secretary in the State Department of Trade.
During the session, which Ikolomani MP Benard Shinali chaired, MPs assessed Ombam’s academic and professional background while questioning her plans for improving the trade sector.
Before her nomination, Ombam worked as a Regional Health Financing Consultant for the East African Community, earning slightly over Sh1 million monthly. She told the committee that her total net worth stands at Sh66 million.
Her decision to leave a high-paying consultancy job for a government position sparked curiosity among lawmakers. “Why are you leaving a lucrative job that pays more for one that pays less?” asked committee chairperson Shinali.
In response, Ombam said her motivation was driven by her deep sense of service and desire to take on a new national challenge. “I am a dedicated and highly professional individual. In any role I undertake, I strive to deliver the best. This is why I am taking the job,” she said.
PSs earn a monthly gross salary of Sh765,188
Committee Vice Chairperson Marianne Kitany pressed Ombam on how she would address recent changes in global trade, including shifts in bilateral agreements and tariffs, citing the example of policy changes by the U.S. government during the Trump administration.
Ombam assured the committee that she would closely examine the terms and conditions of any new agreements to ensure they align with Kenya’s best interests. “Understanding the conditionalities of trade agreements is essential. I will communicate this information to ensure everyone is aware of what we are entering into,” she said.
The committee also raised questions about the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), with MPs Funyula’s Wilberforce Oundo and Gichugu’s Robert Gichimu seeking her opinion on whether she believes it can work.
Ombam expressed full support for the initiative. “I fully understand the BETA plan, and I believe it will transform the country. Its strategic pillars and prioritized areas are crucial,” she said.
On the issue of Kenya’s trade imbalance with other countries, she stressed the importance of empowering local traders and producers, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs). “There are SME traders in this country who face challenges in competing effectively. Focusing on market intelligence will help inform traders about needs, requirements, and demand, making trade more demand-driven,” Ombam said.
She also called for better financing options, improved market access, and capacity building for local traders.
Addressing agricultural trade, Ombam emphasized the importance of aligning local production with international market needs. She said farmers must be trained to produce the right products, maintain quality standards, and supply adequate quantities to meet demand.
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