Jaoko Oburu Odinga

Jaoko Oburu Odinga is a distinguished public servant, entrepreneur, and policy strategist driving inclusive economic transformation in Kenya. As Special Advisor on Economic Empowerment and Sustainable Livelihoods in the Executive Office of the President, he plays a pivotal role in shaping national strategies that expand opportunity, strengthen livelihoods, and accelerate grassroots economic growth.

He leads high-level policy advisory and program coordination focused on job creation, entrepreneurship development, and economic inclusion—particularly for youth, women, and underserved communities. His mandate spans advancing access to finance, strengthening the informal sector, promoting green and community-based enterprises, and mobilizing partnerships across government, the private sector, and civil society to deliver scalable impact.

With over a decade of experience in economic development and investment mobilization, Jaoko brings a strong track record of translating policy into tangible results. Prior to his national appointment, he served in Siaya County as County Executive Committee Member for Roads and Public Works and as Investment and Resource Mobilization Advisor, where he championed infrastructure development and attracted local and international investment to drive sustainable county-level growth.

At the continental level, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to pan-African collaboration and strategic partnerships, notably serving as Global Chair of Friends of Baba (FOBA), where he played a leading role in advocacy linked to African Union leadership processes.

At the Global NGO Stakeholders Summit 2026, Jaoko brings a unique dual perspective as both policymaker and practitioner—having operated from grassroots county governance to the highest office in the country. His insights will focus on how governments and NGOs can co-create solutions that advance economic empowerment, youth employment, women’s enterprise, and innovation-driven development.