Harry Mutuma Kathurima, born on August 20, 1952, in Meru, Kenya, is a prominent diplomat renowned for his extensive career in international and governmental roles. Notably, he served as Kenya’s Ambassador to Germany from August 2005 to September 2010, where he played a significant role in enhancing bilateral relations between the two nations.
Kathurima’s academic background began at the University of Nairobi, where he completed his humanities studies in 1976. He furthered his education at the University of Birmingham, earning a degree in Public Administration in 1982. His professional journey began in the late 1970s as a district officer in Malindi District, and he subsequently worked at the provincial council office in Mombasa until 1982. In 1985, he advanced to the Office of the President, initially as an Assistant Secretary and later as Secretary of State, serving as Chief of Protocol from 1991 to 1997. His career trajectory continued with positions in the Ministry of Urban Development and the Ministry of Co-development before he transitioned into the Foreign Service in 2004.
In 2004, Kathurima was appointed High Commissioner to New Delhi, representing Kenya with concurrent accreditation to Bangladesh, Singapore, and Sri Lanka. His work in the Foreign Service underscored his diplomatic expertise and commitment to fostering international relations.
In January 2012, Kathurima was appointed as the head of the advisory group for Kalonzo Musyoka’s presidential campaign. This advisory group, which included notable figures such as government spokesman Muthui Kariuki and sixteen other members, was tasked with strategizing and supporting Musyoka’s campaign efforts.