A 2025 ethnic and diversity audit by the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has exposed deep-seated inequalities in Kenya’s public sector, revealing that a small number of ethnic communities dominate state corporations and public universities.
The audit, titled “Ethnic and Diversity Audit of Parastatals 2025” and “Ethnic and Diversity Audit of Public Universities 2025,” found that six communities: Kikuyu, Kalenjin, Luo, Luhya, Kamba, and Kisii occupy nearly 86% of roles in public universities and 79.85% of positions in state corporations. When looking at leadership positions, these communities hold 86% of CEO roles, with Kikuyu, Kalenjin, Luo, and Luhya controlling almost two-thirds of top leadership roles.
Breaking it down further, Kikuyus lead with 20.06% of employees, followed by Kalenjins at 17.58% and Luos at 14.12%. When including Luhyas, Kambas, and Kisiis, these six groups collectively account for 88% of positions in state corporations, leaving only 12% for the remaining 37 ethnic groups. Similar patterns exist in public universities, where the dominant ethnic group of vice chancellors often mirrors the majority ethnic community among staff, observed in 50% of universities.
The audit also highlighted gender imbalances. Men occupy 62% of state corporation positions, while women hold just 22% of CEO roles. Only 11 of 40 public universities comply with the National Cohesion and Integration Act, which prohibits hiring more than one-third of staff from a single ethnic group.
NCIC Commissioner Dr. Danvas Makori warned: “Unequal representation across ethnic and gender lines threatens our social fabric. Public institutions must ensure fair access to leadership and employment opportunities to strengthen national cohesion.”
The findings have prompted calls for urgent reforms, including affirmative action, transparent recruitment, and adherence to existing legal frameworks to ensure Kenya’s public sector reflects the nation’s diverse population.
