The story of Kiprono Kittony is one that exemplifies the power of focus and determination.
Despite hailing from a prominent family, Kittony did not rest on his laurels; instead, he forged his path to success through hard work and dedication.
His journey from a humble background in Kericho County to becoming the Chairman of the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) is a testament to his unwavering pursuit of excellence.
Born in 1965 as the second of three children, Kittony grew up with the influence of his parents.
His mother, Zipporah Kittony, served as the chairperson of Maendeleo ya Wanawake, while his father, Paul Kittony, worked as a primary school teacher.
After relocating to Nairobi and later to Kitale, Kittony’s academic brilliance shone through when he topped the country in the Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Exams.
His thirst for knowledge led him to Lenana School for his O-levels and the University of Nairobi, where he earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree in 1988 and a law degree in 2005.
His pursuit of higher education continued as he completed a Global Executive Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the United States International University (USIU) in conjunction with Columbia Business School in America.
Kittony began his career as a farmer on his father’s farm in Kitale, but his late uncle, a former MP, Reuben Chesire, influenced him to explore politics.
However, after an unsuccessful attempt at vying for a parliamentary seat, Kittony found his true calling in business and the corporate world.
Together with his Ghanaian friend Patrick Quarcoo, he co-founded Radio Africa Group in 2000, which has since become one of Kenya’s leading media entities, owning prominent newspapers and radio stations.
Kittony’s contributions extended beyond the media industry. He played a pivotal role in reviving and restoring the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) during his tenure.
His dedication and impact were recognized when he was appointed to the NSE board of directors in 2018 and later assumed the position of Chairman in 2020.
In addition to his role at the NSE, Kittony serves on the boards of several organizations and companies, showcasing his diverse expertise and commitment to various sectors. He actively mentors the youth and engages in philanthropic activities, demonstrating his belief in giving back to society.
Married to Rosemary and a proud father of four daughters, Kittony’s journey is an inspiration to many.
Throughout his life, Kittony has shown resilience in the face of setbacks and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. He has demonstrated that success is not solely determined by one’s background or circumstances but by the willingness to persevere and seize opportunities.
As the Chairman of the NSE, Kittony has been instrumental in steering the stock exchange through various challenges and uncertainties.
His leadership has been marked by a commitment to transparency, accountability, and investor confidence, making him a key figure in Kenya’s financial landscape.
Beyond his business and corporate accomplishments, Kittony’s philanthropic endeavors have left a lasting impact on the communities he serves. He has actively engaged in initiatives aimed at empowering the youth, promoting education, and supporting vulnerable members of society.
