In a strategic move to infuse fresh leadership into the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Treasury CS Njuguna Ndung’u unveiled Humphrey Wattanga Mulongo as the new Commissioner General.
The announcement comes after a six-month period of an acting boss following Githii Mburu’s resignation.
With a blend of private sector acumen and a dedicated stint in public service, Mulongo’s appointment brings an exciting new chapter to the KRA’s journey.
Her is his story as told by WoK.
Education and Early Beginnings
Mulongo’s journey is one marked by excellence from its very inception.
An alumnus of the prestigious Alliance High School, he etched his name in history by securing the top rank in the 1990 KCSE national exams.
This remarkable feat earned him the Dr Ouko Award for Academic Excellence, setting the stage for an illustrious career ahead.
Equipped with an insatiable thirst for knowledge and an inherent knack for finance, Mulongo pursued a Bachelor’s Degree in Biochemical Sciences from the revered Harvard University.
This unusual blend of scientific curiosity and financial acumen would later become a defining factor in his career trajectory.
His educational pursuit culminated in a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the renowned University of Pennsylvania.
A Diverse Career Path
Mulongo’s career journey is nothing short of diverse, spanning across industries and continents.
His professional voyage embarked in 1991 with an internship in the accounts department of East Africa Industries (UNILEVER) in Nairobi.
Guided by Micah Cheserem, then Chief Accountant, he laid the foundational stones of his financial understanding.
His career landscape expanded significantly as he assumed various roles, each contributing to his multifaceted expertise.
As the Managing Director of Meghraj Capital Limited, the investment banking advisory arm of the Meghraj Group, he honed his skills in mergers, acquisitions, and partnerships.
Notably, he introduced an innovative automated bond trading system to the Nairobi Securities Exchange, which played a pivotal role in issuing the world’s first mobile-only government bond, M-Akiba.
Shaping Finance and Revenue Generation
Mulongo’s career also boasts of a stint as a Commissioner and Vice Chairperson of the Commission on Revenue Allocation (CRA) from 2017 to 2022.
During his tenure, he spearheaded a comprehensive review of counties’ Own Source Revenue (OSR) potential.
His analyses revealed a significant gap between the actual and potential revenue. With an estimated potential exceeding Ksh 260 billion, counties were underperforming by Ksh 38 billion annually.
Global Impact and Current Endeavors
Beyond the borders of Kenya, Mulongo’s career has made an impact internationally.
He served as a Senior Partner of Afcorp Investments in Johannesburg, South Africa, from 2004 to 2017, contributing to the investment landscape in the region.
Furthermore, he has held roles in the United States and Switzerland, including positions at organizations like SBC Communications Inc (AT&T) and the World Health Organization.
Currently, as the Commissioner General of the Kenya Revenue Authority, Mulongo continues to drive his passion for innovative technology and financial structuring.
His role is integral in fostering market linkages and optimizing revenue generation for the country.
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