Major Overhaul in Kenya’s Executive and Foreign Service – See Who’s In and Who’s Out!
Nairobi, Kenya – March 20, 2025 – In a sweeping move aimed at revitalizing Kenya’s government machinery, President William Ruto has announced a series of high-level appointments and reassignments across various state departments and foreign missions. The changes, which come as part of the administration’s broader strategy to accelerate the implementation of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), have sent ripples through the political landscape.
The President’s actions, detailed in Executive Order No. 1 of 2025, include promotions, new appointments, and reassignments of Principal Secretaries, Ambassadors, Consuls-General, and Deputy Heads of Mission. These changes are expected to bolster Kenya’s position on the global stage while addressing domestic challenges in key sectors such as education, mining, and public service.
Executive Office of the President: Key Promotions and Appointments
The Executive Office of the President has seen significant changes, with several high-profile promotions and new appointments. Among the most notable is the promotion of Mr. Amos Gathecha from Principal Secretary in the Public Service to Deputy Head of the Public Service. This move underscores the administration’s commitment to strengthening the public service sector, which is crucial for the effective implementation of government policies.
In addition, Prof. Edward Kislang’ani has been appointed as a Senior Advisor and Member of the President’s Council of Economic Advisors. Prof. Kislang’ani’s expertise is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping Kenya’s economic policies, particularly in light of the ongoing efforts to revive the economy post-pandemic.
Principal Secretaries: New Nominations and Reassignments
In line with Article 155(3) of the Constitution, President Ruto has nominated several individuals for appointment as Principal Secretaries. These nominations, which have been forwarded to the National Assembly for approval, are part of a broader strategy to inject fresh energy into key state departments.
- Dr. Jane Kare Imbunya – Nominated for the State Department for Public Service & Human Capital Development under the Ministry of Public Service, Human Capital Development & Special Programmes. Dr. Imbunya’s appointment is expected to bring a renewed focus on human capital development, which is critical for Kenya’s long-term economic growth.
- Ms. Regina Akoth Ombam – Nominated for the State Department for Trade under the Ministry of Investments, Trade & Industry. Ms. Ombam’s extensive experience in trade and investment is expected to bolster Kenya’s position as a regional trade hub.
- Mr. Cyrell Wagunda Odede – Nominated for the State Department for Public Investments & Assets Management under The National Treasury & Economic Planning. Mr. Odede’s role will be crucial in managing Kenya’s public investments and ensuring the efficient utilization of national assets.
Reassignments of Principal Secretaries
In addition to new appointments, several Principal Secretaries have been reassigned to different state departments. These reassignments, carried out in accordance with Article 155(4) of the Constitution, are aimed at optimizing the performance of various ministries.
- Prof. Julius Bitok – Reassigned to the State Department for Basic Education under the Ministry of Education. Prof. Bitok’s move is expected to bring a fresh perspective to Kenya’s education sector, which has been grappling with challenges such as teacher shortages and inadequate infrastructure.
- Ms. Teresiah Mbaika – Reassigned to the State Department for Aviation & Aerospace Development under the Ministry of Roads & Transport. Ms. Mbaika’s appointment comes at a time when Kenya is seeking to expand its aviation sector and position itself as a regional aviation hub.
- Mr. Ismael Madey – Reassigned to the State Department for Special Programmes under the Ministry of Public Service, Human Capital Development & Special Programmes. Mr. Madey’s role will be critical in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations through targeted special programmes.
- Mr. Harry Kimtai – Reassigned to the State Department for Mining under the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy & Maritime Affairs. Mr. Kimtai’s expertise in mining is expected to drive Kenya’s efforts to harness its mineral resources for economic growth.
Foreign Service: New Ambassadors, Consuls-General, and Deputy Heads of Mission
President Ruto has also made significant changes to Kenya’s foreign service, nominating several individuals to serve as Ambassadors, Consuls-General, and Deputy Heads of Mission. These appointments are in line with Article 132 (2) (e) of the Constitution and are aimed at strengthening Kenya’s diplomatic presence abroad.
- Susan Nakhumicha Wafula – Nominated as Permanent Representative to the Permanent Mission of Kenya to the UN Habitat in Nairobi. Ms. Wafula’s appointment underscores Kenya’s commitment to playing a leading role in global urban development initiatives.
- Mr. James Buyekane Muhati – Nominated as Consul-General in Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China. Mr. Muhati’s role will be crucial in strengthening Kenya’s trade and diplomatic ties with China, one of its key economic partners.
- Mr. Abdi Dubat Fidhow – Nominated as Consul-General in Arusha, United Republic of Tanzania. Mr. Fidhow’s appointment is expected to enhance Kenya’s relations with Tanzania, particularly in the context of regional integration efforts.
- Eng. Peter Tum – Nominated as Ambassador to Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo. Eng. Tum’s role will be critical in fostering closer ties between Kenya and the DRC, particularly in the areas of trade and security.
- Mr. Alfred Ombudo K’Ombundo – Nominated as Deputy Head of Mission in Brussels, Belgium. Mr. K’Ombundo’s appointment is expected to bolster Kenya’s engagement with the European Union, particularly in the areas of trade and development cooperation.
- Mr. Geoffrey Eyanae Kaituko – Nominated as Deputy Head of Mission in Rome, Italy. Mr. Kaituko’s role will be crucial in strengthening Kenya’s ties with Italy, particularly in the areas of culture and tourism.
Impact of the Changes
The sweeping changes announced by President Ruto are expected to have far-reaching implications for Kenya’s governance and international relations. By appointing experienced individuals to key positions, the President is signaling his administration’s commitment to addressing the challenges facing the country while capitalizing on emerging opportunities.
The reassignments and new appointments are also expected to bring fresh perspectives to various sectors, particularly in areas such as education, mining, and public service. Moreover, the changes in the foreign service are likely to enhance Kenya’s diplomatic presence abroad, particularly in key regions such as China, Tanzania, and the European Union.
Conclusion
President William Ruto’s latest round of appointments and reassignments marks a significant step in his administration’s efforts to revitalize Kenya’s government machinery. With a focus on strengthening key sectors and enhancing Kenya’s global presence, these changes are expected to play a crucial role in driving the country’s socio-economic transformation.
As the new appointees take up their roles, all eyes will be on their performance and the impact of their leadership on Kenya’s development trajectory.
