Dr. Gilda Odera elected first female FKE President in 65 years

Dr. Gilda Odera has been elected as the new national President of the Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE). 

Being the first woman to be elected President in 65 years, Dr. Odera succeeds Dr. Habil Olaka, who has served as FKE boss for the last four years. 

The change of guard comes as the body unveiled a four-year strategic plan to champion the rights of employers; it will be an interesting time to take up the office tasked with championing the welfare of employers.

FKE’s 2023 annual report indicates that the cost of doing business remains extremely high in the country, exacerbated by Finance Act 2023, the depreciation of the shilling and the high cost of capital.

The federation also unveiled a four-year strategic plan. The main focus, FKE says, will be to form a formidable force to influence policy and regulatory environments for an improved business landscape.

“Now the biggest task will be to implement it. That is always where the rubber meets the rod; implementation of a strategic plan in this economy,” Dr Odera said after the elections.

“We aim to influence labour and socio-economic policy towards creating a conducive business environment for employers in Kenya. Our promise to you is that FKE will be a powerful, balanced and trusted body for employers,” said FKE CEO Jacqueline Mugo.

This is at a time when Finance Bill 2024 has caused jitters among the business community.

“In the period under review, investor confidence is diminished evidenced by significant cash-capital outflows. This trend was attributed to a negative perception of emerging and frontier markets, the high cost of doing business and the depreciating value of the Kenyan shilling. Consequently, Kenyan top markets faced severe setbacks becoming reportedly one of the worst performing globally,” outgoing FKE President Dr. Olaka stated.

Elected alongside Dr. Odera are two Vice Presidents and three board members.

Dr. Odera will lead the employer’s body for two years; she previously served as FKE’s Vice President.