The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is a body tasked with conducting elections in Kenya. Juliana Cherera has become familiar in the body’s press briefings.
WoK brings you the inspiring story of Juliana Cherera – from teaching in a primary school to becoming IEBC Vice Chairman.
Juliana Cherera Education and Qualifications
Juliana Whonge Cherera is a trained Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) teacher which was her first ever career. She advanced her studies and joined Kenyatta University where she acquired a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education specializing in Kiswahili and Geography. She would then acquire a Master of Education, Leadership and Educational Management from Kenya Methodist University (KEMU).
She has also undertaken several programs including a Senior Management Course and Strategic Development Program at the Kenya School of Governance (KSG) and a Diploma in Project Management at the Kenya Institute of Management (KIM).
Experience and Career Journey
Juliana has over 18 years of experience in Education and Management in the public sector. Prior to joining IEBC, she worked as the CEO of the Strategic Delivery Unit at the Mombasa County Government. She worked in various positions including as a Member of Mombasa County Emergency Household Relief and Nutritional Support Project Coordination Committee, Secretary to the Mombasa County Economic Recovery and Legacy Strategy and as a Member of Kenya Devolution Support Program Committee.
Joining IEBC.
In a statement issued on September 14th 2021 by IEBC Chairperson Wafula Chebukati, he announced that Juliana Cherera was unanimously elected as new Vice Chairman of the commission after a plenary meeting.
“The commission takes this opportunity to congratulate Commissioner Cherera on her appointment. The commission would like to assure all stakeholders and the public in general of its commitment to delivering a free, fair and credible 2022 General Elections that meets the democratic aspirations of the people of Kenya,” read a part of the statement.
While speaking during her acceptance speech, Cherera revealed that she is going to be the voice of the voiceless and ensure the country undertakes a free and fair elections.
“We are here to assure the public that we are going to work as a team and we are determined to deliver free, fair and credible elections. I want to speak to the vulnerable and the people who have no opportunity and voice to speak at the table. Like a Captain, you don’t let the ship sink alone, you be there with it,” she said.
Cherera took the mantle from Consolata Nkatha who resigned in April 2018 after falling out with Mr. Chebukati. She now works full time as the Vice Chairperson of IEBC and Chairs the Voter Education, Partnerships and Stakeholders Engagement Committee.
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