This archive report was first published on 15 July 2021.
Exclusive Interview with Nobel Laureate Michael Kremer ¶
July 16, 2021
Michael Kremer, the 2019 Economics Nobel Prize winner, sat down with Nyakundi Report to discuss his groundbreaking research, the impact of deworming, and his personal life.
At 6'4", Kremer exudes a charming boyishness as he speaks passionately about his research and the National School-Based Deworming project, which has reached over six million children in Kenya each year, reducing worm infection in 16 counties.
As a Professor of Economics at the University of Chicago and director of the Development Innovation lab, Kremer's research focuses on finding innovative solutions to address poverty, health, education, agriculture, and safe water.
When asked about his writing habits, Kremer chuckled and said, 'I'm bad at writing about the things I'm working on. I'm never satisfied with the quality of writing. I often get my co-authors complaining that I take forever to finish a paper.'
Kremer's intellectual curiosity was sparked at a young age, when a Physics professor encouraged him to take university-level courses as a Boy Scout. He credits this experience with helping him realize his potential and develop a love for economics.
As for the impact of the Nobel Prize, Kremer said, 'It's a little bit strange. People sometimes take what I say too seriously. I think that's one good thing because in research we are constantly questioning things.'
When asked about his faith, Kremer replied, 'I believe in God...but I'm not...I'm not religious, I'm spiritual. I think also the straight values have motivated me very much.'
Despite his busy schedule, Kremer finds joy in reading, riding a bike, and listening to jazz. He credits his family as his top source of happiness and hopes to pass on his values to his children.
