Nairobi News

President Uhuru Kenyatta has sent his message condolences to the family and friends of billionaire Jeremiah Kiereini, who died on Monday evening.

Mr Kiereini, who once served as the Head of Civil Service and Secretary to the Cabinet, died aged 90.

The Alliance High School and Makerere University alumni also served as Permanent Secretary for Defence in Jomo Kenyatta’s government.

He was later elevated to the Head of Civil Service position by President Daniel arap Moi to replace Mr Geoffrey Kariithi.

PATRIOTIC KENYAN

In a statement published on the official State House Facebook page, President Kenyatta described the deceased as a “towering reform minded public servant and patriotic Kenyan who served his country with distinction.”

He said the late Kiereini remains an important part of Kenya’s public service history due to the many achievements which include being the role he played in the modernization of the Kenyan military when he served as a Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Defence.

“Mr Kiereini was a polished patriot and loyal Kenyan who served this country with dedication as a public servant for over 30 years rising through the ranks to the position of Head of Public Service and Secretary to the Cabinet,” said the head of state.

President Kenyatta prayed to God to give the family comfort and fortitude at “this difficult period of mourning.”

RETIREMENT

After he retired from public service, Mr Kiereini ventured into the private sector where he was appointed the Chairman of Kenya Breweries Board (KBL) where he oversaw its transformation to the East African Breweries Limited.

Mr Kiereini also served in the boards of Heritage Insurance, CFC Life Unga Group Limited, CMC Holdings, CFC Stanbic.

He also had vast businessman interests in real estate, coffee farming and insurance.

Two years ago, Kiereini’s son, Githae, was found dead at their Karen home.