Francis Okomo Okello has revealed in his autobiography that he is a trained lawyer, a fact that has taken many of his colleagues and associates by surprise.
Widely known as a corporate leader and influential voice in boardrooms, Okomo’s disclosure sheds new light on the diverse foundation of his career.
In his book, Concert of Life: From the Lakeside to the Boardroom, Okomo traces his journey from his upbringing in Yimbo, Siaya County, to his academic and professional achievements.
Despite losing both parents at an early age, he pursued education with determination, eventually joining Maranda High School and later Kisii High School.
His ambition led him to study law at the University of Dar es Salaam, after which he completed bar examinations and was admitted as an advocate. He later advanced his studies at Princeton University.
Unlike many of his peers, Okomo did not pursue courtroom practice. Instead, he ventured into banking, corporate governance, and media leadership.
His career highlights include serving as the chair of Barclays Bank of Kenya, now Absa, and holding directorships in major corporations. His role in the media industry further cemented his image as a business strategist and boardroom executive, rather than as a legal practitioner.
Friends and professional associates admit that they only came to know of his legal background through his memoir. For many, the revelation redefines their perception of Okomo, showing a man whose professional discipline has been shaped not just by business experience but also by legal training.
He himself notes that law sharpened his analytical thinking, instilled integrity, and influenced his decision-making throughout his career.
The autobiography is not only a personal reflection but also a valuable record of Kenya’s social and economic transformation. It highlights the role of education, resilience, and adaptability in shaping leaders who transcend traditional boundaries.
For younger generations, Okomo’s story is a reminder that professional versatility can open unexpected doors and sustain leadership across multiple industries.
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