It all started
when one netizen stated that he interacted with a ‘mama mboga’ who used ‘the
big picture’ in their conversation.
Albeit on light
note, CBK Governor Patrick Njoroge took up the conversation perhaps to demystify
talk that casual workers are not schooled.
Njoroge opened up
on an interaction with baggage loaders that challenged him.
“I was boarding a flight at Mombasa airport
about 3 years ago. I was the last passenger to board and for some reason I was
escorted onto the apron and then up the tiny staircase on the side of the jet
bridge.
“Two baggage loaders recognized me and immediately engaged
me in conversation, joining me up the stairs. Then a question: “Governor, how
come borrowing interest rates in [# and #] are as low as 2-5 percent, while
borrowing rates in Kenya are much higher?” This stopped me cold,” he narrated.
The CBK governor was left in awe by their knowledge in
emerging markets considering the countries they mentioned were not the ones he
regularly monitors.
He expressed how impressed he was by their sharp minds and
it hit him hard that there are young Kenyans who are sharp but do not
necessarily work in ‘big offices.’
“The two countries that they mentioned were emerging
markets, but not even the ones I monitor regularly. And to explain it in all 15
seconds..?!! Then it hit me—what a question from a baggage loader! How
perceptive! No CIA agents here, just some very smart young Kenyans!
“In my 4 1/2 years as CBK Governor this is by far the most
difficult question I ever faced. And from a “very ordinary” baggage loader!
Respect,” he remarked