Laikipia County, situated in central Kenya, is known for its rich agricultural potential, diverse tourism offerings, and strategic economic growth initiatives. The county is led by Governor Joshua Irungu, who assumed office following his election on August 12th, 2022, under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party. Governor Irungu’s administration is focused on ensuring that Laikipia County’s resources are effectively managed to spur development across various sectors.
The governance of Laikipia County is supported by a team of County Executive Committee (CEC) members, each overseeing different ministries crucial for the county’s progress. This article provides an in-depth look at the key CECs in Laikipia County, their respective ministries, and the overall governance structure.
List of Laikipia County Government Ministers (CECs)
The Laikipia County government comprises six CEC members, each responsible for specific ministries that address the needs of the county’s residents. Below is a detailed list of these ministers and their roles:
| Ministry | Minister (CEC) |
|---|---|
| 1. Finance and County Planning and Development | Samuel Wachira Gachigi |
| 2. Infrastructure, Lands, Public Works, and Urban Development | Ekwam Nabos |
| 3. Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries | Edwin Kasoo |
| 4. Water, Environment, and Natural Resources | Leah Njeri |
| 5. Trade, Tourism, Cooperatives, and Enterprise Development | Stephen Biwott Kisorio |
| 6. Health | Albert Wagurah Taiti |
Overview of the Ministries and Their Responsibilities
- Finance and County Planning and Development (Samuel Wachira Gachigi)
- This ministry is pivotal for managing Laikipia County’s finances, budgeting, and economic planning. It ensures the county’s resources are allocated efficiently to support development projects and service delivery. It also oversees the preparation of county budgets and manages revenue collection and expenditure.
- Infrastructure, Lands, Public Works, and Urban Development (Ekwam Nabos)
- Ekwam Nabos is responsible for overseeing infrastructure development, including road networks and public works projects. The ministry is also in charge of urban planning and land management, aiming to create sustainable urban spaces and manage land resources effectively.
- Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries (Edwin Kasoo)
- Agriculture is a key economic driver in Laikipia County. Under Edwin Kasoo’s leadership, the ministry focuses on supporting farmers through initiatives like modern farming techniques, value addition, and market access. It also oversees the management of livestock and fisheries to ensure food security and economic growth in the agricultural sector.
- Water, Environment, and Natural Resources (Leah Njeri)
- Leah Njeri’s ministry is responsible for ensuring sustainable use and management of water resources and preserving the county’s environment. The ministry plays a crucial role in addressing water scarcity issues, implementing environmental conservation programs, and managing natural resources to mitigate climate change impacts.
- Trade, Tourism, Cooperatives, and Enterprise Development (Stephen Biwott Kisorio)
- This ministry aims to boost economic activities through trade facilitation, tourism promotion, and cooperative development. It focuses on creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive and supports local enterprises, enhancing Laikipia’s attractiveness as a tourist destination.
- Health (Albert Wagurah Taiti)
- Albert Wagurah Taiti leads the ministry responsible for providing quality healthcare services across Laikipia County. The ministry focuses on improving health facilities, enhancing access to medical care, and managing health programs to ensure the well-being of residents.
County Ministers (CECs) Salaries in Kenya
County Executive Committee members (CECs) in Kenya, including those serving in Laikipia, earn a salary determined by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC). As of the most recent SRC guidelines, the remuneration of a CEC member is as follows:
- Basic Salary: Ksh 242,550
- House Allowance: Ksh 45,000
- Market Adjustment: Ksh 81,700
- Total Salary Per Month: Ksh 404,250
The CECs are compensated for their role in policy implementation, overseeing service delivery, and ensuring that the county’s objectives are met. The salary package is structured to reflect their responsibilities in managing county affairs.
Importance of CECs in County Governance
The CEC members play a crucial role in the decentralization of services in Kenya, as outlined in the 2010 Constitution. Their work is integral to bringing government services closer to the people and ensuring that local priorities are addressed efficiently. The ministries they oversee are critical for the sustainable development of Laikipia County, supporting sectors like agriculture, health, and infrastructure which are essential for the county’s economic growth.
Laikipia County’s government, led by Governor Joshua Irungu, benefits from a well-rounded team of CEC members who bring expertise and commitment to their respective roles. Each minister contributes to the county’s development agenda, ensuring that resources are managed effectively and that services reach the grassroots level. As Laikipia County continues to focus on growth and development, the strategic management of these ministries will be vital for achieving long-term prosperity.
The leadership and strategic vision of the CECs ensure that Laikipia remains a key player in Kenya’s economic landscape. Through coordinated efforts, the county aims to leverage its natural resources, improve infrastructure, and foster a conducive environment for investment, benefiting its residents and contributing to national growth.