Dr. Edward Odundo: A Journey into Unhatted Territory

Dr. Edward Odundo, the maestro of multiple hats and the former CEO of the Retirement Benefits Authority (RBA), has quite a knack for collecting roles. He’s not just a wearer of hats; he’s a maestro of the hat game.

In his impressive portfolio of responsibilities, Dr. Odundo has helmed the School of Pension and Retirement Studies, navigated Equity Group Holdings as a board member and chaired the Equity Life Assurance Company. On top of this, he’s been a guiding light at the University of Nairobi's School of Business, a consultant in a smorgasbord of fields from pensions to financial services, and the list goes on.

He’s bounced around like a pinball, from chairman of the Public Service Superannuation Scheme to former stewardship at the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), Insurance Regulatory Authority, and Policy Holders Compensation Fund.

And hold onto your hats, there’s more—this man’s a literary heavyweight, authoring two books and penning a third. It's like a hat store that never runs out of stock!

But now, after all the hat-juggling, Dr.Edward Odundo PhD,MBS finds himself in uncharted territory: retirement. The big question is, how does a man accustomed to wearing more hats than a hat rack handle retirement?

As it turns out, retirement for Dr.Edward Odundo PhD,MBS wasn’t just about kicking back and relaxing. It was more like stepping into a new hat—one that didn’t quite fit at first.

"Retirement is not what you think it will be," he chuckles, recalling the unexpected hurdles. Suddenly cut off from the medical cover he'd enjoyed throughout his career, he found himself pondering the stark reality of footing the bill for healthcare.

But ever the problem-solver, he had a solution up his hat sleeve. During his tenure at RBA, he introduced post-retirement medical cover. Now, four companies offer this invaluable safety net.

Reflecting on the transition, he admits, "I’m happier now. It’s my own time, not dictated by office hours or appointments. But let me tell you, retirement isn’t about sitting idle. That’s just unnatural. Keep busy!"

Teaching at the university, serving on boards, and engaging in charitable work, Dr.Edward Odundo PhD,MBS keeps his days bustling. And for him, the village life isn’t just about tranquility; it’s about bringing the village to Nairobi with a solid internet connection.

And when it comes to raising four daughters, his pride knows no bounds. He’s raised them to be independent professionals, navigating the modern world with grace. "Empty nest is here," he quips, reminiscing about a once bustling household now echoing with newfound quietude.

And what about sons? Dr.Edward Odundo PhD,MBS waves off the notion with a laugh, affirming that the empowered girl child has been the secret weapon all along.

As he closes this chapter of his life, he shares a nugget of wisdom: "Money isn’t everything. Give away the excess. Time and kindness—those are the real treasures."

So here’s to Dr. Odundo, the man of many hats, now comfortably embracing the hatless expanse of retirement—where every day brings the excitement of a cow passing by in the village. Cheers to a retirement that’s anything but idle!