Former Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho has issued clarification over questions on his academic qualifications.
Speaking before the National Assembly Appointments committee on Sunday, August 4, Joho revealed that he in fact has several degrees.
According to him, he acquired the degrees after becoming a businessman in different sectors. He finished his high school education in Mombasa and did different businesses before he embarked on his journey to acquiring the degrees.
“After I finished secondary school, I ventured into business. I set up a clearing and forwarding company in Mombasa. I diversified into fintech, real estate and logistics. That is up to 2004, where I began by grassroot elections. I became the chairman of NDP.
“In 2006, I embarked on a journey to acquire my first degree. I did my bridging course, a diploma in 2007 and graduated from Kampala university in 2013.
“I did another degree from Gretsa University in Thika and after, I enrolled in Havard Kennedy University for a Public Leadership credential program to attain a degree in public administration,” he stated.
He revealed that his net worth is Ksh2,361,332, 249.
Money accrued from developed and undeveloped properties including his homes, shareholding in some property holdings, and family businesses, and valuables like watches and cash at bank.
Also Read: Joho, Oparanya & Mbadi Resign from ODM
Joho Explains his Educational Challenges
Additionally, Joho explained that he went through several challenges including coming from a poor background.
However, he said that he overcame those challenges, including paying part of his high school fees.
“I want Kenyans to know that historical struggles are real. Someone should never imagine that is they come from places and levels of comfort; the playing field is leveled for everyone.
“Some of us come from very poor backgrounds. If you look at my CV, you can see that I took a one-year break transiting from primary school to secondary, because simply my parents could not afford school fees,” he added.
Moreover, he called on Kenyans to bring the matter to a rest, adding that it is always brought up when he is seeking opportunities.
Also Read: Ali Hassan Joho: From Garbage Collector to Coastal Kingpin
Getting a D in KSCE
Also, Joho admitted that he got a D- in his high school national exams, a fact that did not deter him from doing well in life.
“I did not live in an environment that allowed me to quickly prosper in matter education. What gives me pride is that I turned it around when I found the slightest opportunity for self-improvement.
“So yes, I did not do well in my secondary school, I got a D- no doubt, but I turned that around. today I hold two degrees and I am on my pathway to attain a master’s degree from the most prestigious university in the world, and that is achieved by determination.
“I would have been very surprised if this question did not come up, because it comes up every time there is an opportunity for me to pursue,” he added.
Joho was nominated to the ministry of Mining, Blue economy, Maritime Affairs as Cabinet secretary.
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