Veteran columnist and writer Oyunga Pala has praised Kenya’s Ambassador to Belgium and the European Union, Prof. Bitange Ndemo, describing him as one of the most impactful and approachable public officials the country has produced.
In a post shared on Facebook after visiting the envoy, Pala noted that Ndemo has consistently demonstrated brilliance and accessibility, both during his years in public service and in his current diplomatic role.
He recalled presenting his latest book to the ambassador, who took time to engage him in wide-ranging discussions that spanned geopolitics, artificial intelligence, and everyday Kenyan concerns such as mobile money transfers.
“Balozi has range, he can speak geopolitics and AI innovation and then switch to daily frustrations of Mpesa emergencies from relatives in shags,” Pala wrote.
He described Ndemo as a grounded leader who has remained gracious and supportive, highlighting how the ambassador has over the years encouraged his writing career.
Pala also credited Ndemo with playing a key role in Kenya’s digital revolution, pointing to his work in expanding internet penetration, championing digital transformation, and spearheading the Konza Technopolis project.
He described the envoy as more than a diplomat, calling him a “public intellectual” whose regular LinkedIn newsletter continues to shape conversations on technology, governance, and development.
The columnist reflected on his long association with Ndemo, recalling how the ambassador frequently introduced him at public forums and insisted colleagues take his writings seriously.
He said handing Ndemo a finished copy of his book, which he had mentioned during an earlier meeting in Brussels two years ago, was a moment of pride.
Quoting a lesson he draws from Ndemo’s leadership style, Pala concluded: “The measure of a man is what he does with power.”
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