- The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) chief executive officer, Ahmed Farah, has resigned
- Farah, a former director at Trademark Africa in Kenya, tendered his resignation after failing to agree with the KNCCI board on how the chamber should be run
- Farah took up the position from Patrick Nyangweso, who left the chamber in 2024 unceremoniously
Bonface Kanyamwaya, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, has more than 10 years of financial, economic, business, markets, and aviation expertise, providing insights into Kenya and global trends.
Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) chief executive officer, Ahmed Farah, has resigned barely seven months into the job.
Source: Twitter
In a press statement released on Friday, April 18, Farah said that he had resigned due to disagreements with the board of directors regarding how the chamber should be run.
Who was the KNCCI CEO before Farah?
Farah took up the job at KNCCI in September 2024 from Patrick Nyangweso, who was also allegedly pushed out by the board of KNCCI under unclear circumstances.
“I wish to officially announce my departure from the position of Chief Executive Officer at the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), effective Friday, 18 April 2025,” said Farah in press release which was seen by TUKO.co..ke.
“As with many leadership journeys, moments of divergence can shape the way forward. In this case, differing perspectives between me and the Board of Directors have brought my tenure to a close,” he added.
Farah said that during his tenure, he was privileged to work alongside a highly committed team, stakeholders who were committed to pushing matters trade in Kenya to the global sphere.
“I remain optimistic in the Chamber’s potential in promoting a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive economy. With capable leadership and sustained collaboration, I am certain the institution will build upon its solid foundation and continue to deliver meaningful impact for the business community in the country. I extend my sincere appreciation and thanks to all who supported me during my time at the Chamber. Your confidence and partnership have been instrumental and deeply appreciated,” he said.
Ahmed Farah’s distinguished career
Farah is a former director for TradeMark Africa (TMA) in Kenya.
During his stint at TMA, he was instrumental in leading transformational programmes that were tailored to drive economic growth in Kenya and regional integration.
Apart from his former role at TMA, he sits in Kenya’s National Investment Council, where he is a key cog in crafting investment strategies to bring on board global investors and promote sustainable growth.
He also contributed to the presidential think tank on economic recovery post-COVID-19, showing his passion for how to build a resilient economy.
He holds a Master’s degree in International Development from the University of Manchester and a Bachelor’s of Commerce degree from Kenyatta University.
Source: Twitter
World chamber forum in Nairobi
Farah’s exit comes barely a few weeks after KNCCI hosted the World Chamber Federation (WCF) summit in Nairobi.
The event was held on Wednesday, March 9, and ended on Thursday, March 10.
It brought together business leaders across the globe. This was the first time the event was happening in Africa since its inception in 1975.
Proofreading by Mercy Nyambura, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke