Itumbi’s Early Life as an Evangelist & His New Way of Preaching Today

Dennis Itumbi, the top Kenyan digital strategist and currently the Head of Presidential Special Projects and Creative Economy Coordination, has revealed his surprising origin story during a podcast interview.

He was speaking to journalist Alex Mwakideu on the Alex Mwakideu podcast, where the pair discussed their long history working together in journalism.

The interview took place in Itumbi’s own large government office, marking a high point in a career that has spanned reporting, blogging, and political communication.

From Evangelist to Reporter

Itumbi confirmed that before his entry into professional media, he was an active evangelist. Mwakideu, who worked with him years ago when Itumbi was a young journalist fresh from school at Baraka FM, confirmed Itumbi’s early journalism career.

Itumbi’s roots in ministry date back to his high school days. He noted that posters and even short videos from his time as "Evangelist Dennis" still exist.

“I was Evangelist Dennis Itumbi. Posters ziko hadi wa sasa [I was Evangelist Dennis Itumbi. The posters are even there until now],” he stated.

He even recalled standing down as a prefect in high school during assembly because he had begun to disagree with what he felt was unfair.

A Change in Delivery

When asked about his evangelism, Itumbi confirmed that he stopped preaching to people at the altar. However, he insisted that the mission continues.

“I’ve just changed the form of preaching,” Itumbi explained.

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He clarified that he now preaches to people through policy rather than from the altar. This involves impacting lives by shaping government actions from within his current powerful role.

He sees his future still involving spiritual inspiration, stating that he has about two more stages in his career before he retires back to "inspiring souls".

Preaching Through Policy

As Head of Special Projects and Creative Economy, Itumbi is heavily involved in government reorganisation and national policies. His work focuses on initiatives designed to benefit the populace.

For instance, he noted a recent transformation in the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). The number of registered users has risen significantly from seven million to 26 million following recent changes.

Itumbi also cited the affordable housing initiative as a crucial area of national engagement. He highlighted that the project has actively employed 350,000 people so far.

Currently, 160,000 houses are under construction, creating new business opportunities for small-scale suppliers in the ‘Jua Kali’ sector.

He sees Kenya being "absolutely transformed" in the next two years before the 2027 elections. This transformation includes plans for 20 mini-stadiums across the country.

The Jamhuri Day celebration this year is scheduled to be held at the new Talanta Stadium.

Itumbi believes that by focusing on policy, he continues to deliver impactful content, just in a new venue.