Who is Hannah Teriki Wendot Cheptumo, the new Gender CS?

By Newsflash Correspondent

Hannah Teriki Wendot Cheptumo, a seasoned Kenyan lawyer, has been nominated as the Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, the Arts, and Heritage.

She is widely recognized for her legal expertise, resilience, and dedication to family and community service.

Legal career and public service

Hannah’s passion for law was nurtured and encouraged by her late husband, Senator William Cheptumo, who envisioned her playing a key role in managing their family’s legal practice. She later joined the law firm he established, where she made significant contributions to its operations.

Before her marriage to the late senator, Hannah worked at Nyayo House, a government office that houses over 58 National and County Government departments, including immigration services. Her background in public service strengthened her advocacy for women’s rights, legal empowerment, and social justice.

Personal life and family

Hannah was married to Senator William Cheptumo, with whom she shared a deep and enduring bond. Speaking at his requiem mass at AIC Milimani, Nairobi, she fondly recalled how he was drawn to her smile and teeth, a humorous anecdote that reflected their strong connection.

The couple was blessed with three children—Antony Kipchirchir, Andrew Rotich, and Jean Jeptoo—all of whom followed their parents’ footsteps in pursuing careers in law.

Presidential nomination

During Senator Cheptumo’s burial on March 1, 2025, in Bartabwa, Baringo County, President William Ruto pledged to offer Hannah a position in government. However, at the time, he did not disclose the specific role.

President Ruto praised the late senator’s legacy, describing him as a resourceful and progressive leader who championed development, peace, and security in Baringo and the Kerio Valley. The president also acknowledged his close collaboration with Cheptumo’s efforts to enhance security in Baringo County.

With her nomination as Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, the Arts, and Heritage, Hannah is now set to step into a leadership role, continuing her late husband’s legacy while advancing social justice and gender equality in Kenya