H.E. Hassan Ali Joho is a distinguished transformative leader, currently serving as the Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs. Born in 1973 in Kisauni Sub-County, Mombasa, he was raised in a close-knit, hardworking family that instilled in him the virtues of resilience, discipline, and service. These principles continue to shape his public life.
CS Joho holds two Bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration from Kampala University and Gretsa University. In addition, he has earned multiple diplomas in Business, Shipping, Logistics, and ICT. Demonstrating a deep commitment to continuous leadership development, he has completed three executive programs at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government: the Public Leadership Credential (July 2022), Leadership for the 21st Century (March 2024), and Negotiation Strategies: Building Agreement Across Borders (March 2024).
His political journey began in 2004, culminating in his election as Member of Parliament for Kisauni Constituency in 2007. From 2013 to 2022, he served as the first Governor of Mombasa County where he provided bold, people-centered leadership that transformed the county into a key economic and investment hub. His tenure was marked by inclusive governance, major infrastructure development, and significant improvements in healthcare and education that left a lasting impact on livelihoods across the Coast region, strengthening Mombasa’s position on Kenya’s economic landscape.
Beyond elective office, H.E. Joho has held several influential political roles including Assistant Minister for Transport, National Organizing Secretary and Deputy Party Leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). His leadership extends to the global stage as a member of the International Steering Committee of the Strong Cities Network where he champions peace, resilience, and urban security.
An accomplished entrepreneur, CS Joho has diverse business interests spanning shipping, logistics, environmental management, and manufacturing. Through the Hassan Joho Foundation, he has made significant philanthropic contributions, particularly in education and social development, establishing institutions and programs that continue to uplift communities across the region.
As Cabinet Secretary, his vision is anchored on mineral value addition, sustainable management of ocean resources, maritime capacity building, and the attraction of strategic international partnerships. Through this agenda, H.E. Hassan Ali Joho is positioning Kenya as a competitive and responsible leader in the mining, blue economy and maritime sectors.