Painful Childhood and the Making of Kenya’s Most Powerful PS: Inside the Life of Dr. Raymond Omollo

At 45, Dr Raymond Omollo is one of the most influential figures in the Kenya Kwanza administration, currently serving as the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration.

Known for his calm demeanor, calculated approach, and articulate communication, very few people know the man behind the title.

Business Today sat down with Dr Omollo to delve into his life story—one he says could take a week to fully tell. Raised in Kisumu and Homa Bay, Dr Omollo’s journey from a village boy to one of the country’s most prominent leaders is nothing short of remarkable.

A Humble Beginning

Born in Homa Bay, Omollo was raised by a single mother alongside five siblings after their father passed away in 1985. He was just eight years old at the time.

“When we lost our father, there was a significant shift in our lifestyle. We moved from Kisumu back to the village, and eventually, I ended up living with relatives. It was during that time that I truly understood what poverty meant—surviving on just one meal a day. Over time, it became normal, as it was the reality for everyone,” he recalls.

Despite the hardships of village life, Omollo saw an opportunity for a better future through education. He attended a village school that was performing well academically, even though he had the option to stay with his mother for a more comfortable life.

Dr Omollo completed his foundational education at Rang’i Primary School and Mbita High School before pursuing higher education at the University of Nairobi, where he was among the first eight students to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Statistics. He later obtained a Master’s degree in Biometry and a Ph.D. in Applied Statistics from Maseno University.

“When I told my mother about my decision to stay in the village school, she asked why I didn’t stay with her. At the time, I thought about it, but I knew that staying with her meant missing an opportunity to attend a good high school. The village school, however, was doing well, and I knew it would open doors for me,” he says.

Giving Back to His Roots

Though he has achieved considerable success, Dr. Omollo remains deeply connected to his roots. He has quietly supported his village school, although he prefers not to reveal the details of his contributions.

“I have gone back to give something to the school with my peers. When I speak to the current students, they realize that there is a world beyond the village, which inspires them to aim higher,” he explains.

“I am a PS today, but before me, there was someone else. After me, there will be someone else. I see my role as an opportunity to serve and make a difference. If I can inspire the next generation of leaders, I will have fulfilled my purpose.”

In addition to supporting his community, Omollo runs a Widows’ Empowerment Programme, which he holds close to his heart. Born from his personal experiences, he explains that the program reflects his belief in systemic empathy and human dignity.

“Growing up with a widowed mother, I understand the challenges faced by women who are the sole providers for their families. Many widows struggle with poverty, trying to support their children’s education, manage households in substandard conditions, and sustain small businesses. This work is deeply personal for me,” he shares.

Dr Omollo’s program helps widows in various ways, from supporting their children’s education to providing financial or material assistance to improve their businesses. He believes these efforts help them become self-sufficient.

Empowering the Youth

Dr. Omollo is also committed to empowering the youth, particularly in the fight against drug abuse, crime, and other societal vices. “We must provide young people with opportunities to grow and stay away from harmful influences. Our focus will be on ensuring that they become productive members of society,” he says.

A Drive to Go Beyond Average

Dr Omollo’s drive to succeed stems from his belief in pushing beyond the ordinary. “I interact with young people a lot and always encourage them to challenge themselves. I tell them, if others report to work at 8:00 am, why not arrive half an hour earlier? And when people leave at 5:00 pm, why not stay an extra hour? These small efforts add up and reflect in the quality of work and results over time,” he advises.

He draws inspiration from sports, particularly from the work ethic of athletes like Cristiano Ronaldo. “His coach said Ronaldo was always the first to arrive for training and the last to leave. The results speak for themselves. It’s easy to admire the end product without understanding the effort that went into it.”

Omollo credits much of his success to his family, who have always supported him, especially during difficult times. “I grew up with strict parents. My mother was very enterprising and sometimes tough on us, treating us all equally, including the workers. At times, I questioned her methods, but looking back, I realize it helped me become the person I am today,” he reflects.

Education as a Pathway to Opportunity

Dr Omollo is a firm believer in the power of education to level the playing field. “The first time I boarded a plane was at 25, and it was a huge milestone for me. Many people may wonder how that was possible, but it was through education. Education opens doors and provides opportunities. It enables you to interact with people from different backgrounds, and you begin to see the world in a different light,” he says.

Before becoming Principal Secretary, Dr Omollo held various roles, including Managing Director of the Lake Basin Development Authority (LBDA), Head of Data Center and Statistician at DNDi Africa, and board member at Consolidated Bank of Kenya. He has also worked as a research fellow and adjunct lecturer at Strathmore University.

Leadership Philosophy

In his current role, Dr Omollo emphasizes modernization and human-centered leadership. “In the State Department, I’ve focused on modernizing systems by centering on people’s needs, experiences, and potential for growth. Technological advancements are important, but we must always ensure that human experiences remain at the heart of every service,” he explains.

“My leadership style is grounded in building trust through transparency and consistency. It’s about looking beyond bureaucratic measures and remembering that every policy or initiative ultimately affects real people.”

Dr. Omollo’s journey from a village boy in Homa Bay to a powerful Principal Secretary is a testament to resilience, hard work, and a commitment to lifting others along the way.

Read: ‘It was unfortunate’ – PS Omollo says over police action on anti-femicide protesters

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