Discover the inspiring career journey of Macdonald Obudho, Director General of KNBS, and his impact on Kenya’s national statistics, including the 2019 digital census.
Who Is Macdonald Obudho?
Macdonald George Obudho is the current Director General of the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), having been appointed to the position in November 2020. With nearly three decades of service at KNBS, Obudho is a seasoned statistician with a deep understanding of Kenya’s statistical systems and national planning frameworks.
Academic Qualifications
Obudho holds impressive academic credentials:
- PhD in Statistics
- Master of Science in Statistics – Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT)
- Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Computer Science – JKUAT
His advanced education laid the foundation for a data-driven approach to leadership and national statistics development.
Career at KNBS
Obudho joined KNBS in 1995 as an Economist/Statistician II. Over the years, he has risen through the ranks to become the Director General, a testament to his dedication and excellence.
Major Career Highlights:
- Coordinated Kenya’s first ever digital Population and Housing Census in 2019
- Designed and implemented national sample surveys in demography and social statistics
- Played a key role in developing statistical sampling frames for various household surveys
- Served extensively in field operations, later coordinating all field offices countrywide
- Over 13 years in senior management, steering Kenya’s statistical system
Statistical Expertise
Obudho’s professional experience covers:
- Population and housing censuses
- Design and execution of statistical surveys
- Compilation of official national statistics
- Development of statistical frameworks and indicators
He is recognized for his expertise in data collection methodologies, survey coordination, and policy-relevant statistical output.
Awards and Recognition
In recognition of his pivotal role in executing the 2019 census, Macdonald Obudho was awarded the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS) — a prestigious State Honour bestowed by the President of Kenya.
This accolade celebrates his commitment to public service and excellence in statistical governance.
Board Memberships and Contributions
Obudho is also actively involved in board-level governance. He serves on various boards, including:
- Hazina SACCO Ltd, among others
His leadership extends beyond KNBS, supporting cooperative development and institutional strengthening in Kenya’s economic sectors.
Conclusion
Macdonald Obudho’s rise from junior statistician to the Director General of KNBS reflects a career rooted in dedication, expertise, and national service. As the architect of Kenya’s first digital census and a trusted steward of the country’s statistical integrity, Obudho continues to shape the future of data-driven governance in Kenya.
