[8] As the Ambassador to Austria, with accreditation to Hungary and Slovakia, he provided support and consular services to Kenyans living abroad and promoted trade and economic cooperation with a variety of European nations and thereby contributed to the realization of Kenya's Vision 2030.

[9] In addition to this, Yatani held senior leadership positions at various diplomatic and international agencies at the United Nations and also chaired the African Group of Ambassadors.

[11] During his time as Governor, Yatani provided strategic leadership, guidance and oversight in setting up devolved governance structures, competent financial and human resource infrastructure and shaped the development agenda of Marsabit County.

Throughout his term he promoted harmonious coexistence and cohesion among the fifteen indigenous ethnic communities and made Marsabit County one of the most peaceful in the country.

[12] Yatani set out on an ambitious development journey and steered the roll-out of the County Integrated Development Plan (hailed as the best in the country by the UN) which included a variety of major initiatives, including the construction of new county offices, a four-storey modern market, a modern stadium, over a dozen health centers, and new tourist resort facility and 200 ECD classrooms.

In addition, he spearheaded a UNDP funded unique cross border program bringing jobs and billions of shillings of investment to the region.

[16] On 16 February 2018, Yatani was sworn in by the President of the Republic of Kenya, Uhuru Kenyatta for Cabinet Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection.

[17] On 24 July 2019 President Uhuru Kenyatta appointed Yatani as the Cabinet Secretary for Treasury on Acting capacity following the sacking of Henry Rotich.