President William Ruto has announced a sweeping Cabinet reshuffle, including new nominations, reassignments, and fresh leadership for various government departments and agencies. The changes, unveiled on December 19, 2024, are aimed at reinforcing the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), with a focus on enhancing service delivery and fostering inclusive economic growth.
The reshuffle includes high-profile appointments, strategic reassignments, and the creation of new leadership positions across ministries and agencies. Below are the comprehensive details of the changes:
New Cabinet Secretary Nominations
- Hon. Mutahi Kagwe
Nominated as Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Mutahi Kagwe is expected to bring transformative leadership to one of Kenya’s most critical ministries. His extensive public service experience positions him well to address food security challenges, support farmers, and enhance agricultural exports. - Hon. Lee Kinyanjui
Former Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui has been nominated as Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade, and Industry. His appointment signals the government’s intent to prioritize economic growth, expand trade partnerships, and boost industrialization efforts. - Hon. William Kabogo
Nominated to head the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy, William Kabogo will spearhead Kenya’s ICT agenda, focusing on digital transformation, e-commerce, and technological innovation to drive economic competitiveness.
Reassignments of Cabinet Secretaries
- Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen
Former Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport, Kipchumba Murkomen, has been reassigned to the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, where he will oversee security, governance, and internal administration. - Hon. Salim Mvurya
Previously serving in the Ministry of Mining, Salim Mvurya will now lead the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, highlighting the administration’s commitment to empowering young people and fostering Kenya’s creative and sports sectors. - Hon. Florence Bore
Former Cabinet Secretary for Labour, Florence Bore has been reassigned to the Ministry of Mining, where she will oversee the strategic development of Kenya’s mineral resources. - Hon. Zachariah Njeru
Previously leading the Lands docket, Zachariah Njeru has been reassigned to the Ministry of Roads, Transport, and Public Works. His experience in infrastructure development is expected to play a pivotal role in improving Kenya’s transport systems.
Principal Secretary Reassignments
- Eng. Joseph Mbugua
Reassigned to the State Department for Lands and Physical Planning. - Julius Bitok
Moves to the State Department for Immigration, and Citizen Services, where he is expected to streamline processes and enhance public service delivery. - Dr. Chris Kiptoo
Reassigned to the National Treasury, signaling a focus on financial management and economic stability. - Peter Tum
Moves to the State Department for Labour, where he will oversee critical issues such as employment policies and workplace welfare. - Julius Korir
Appointed to the State Department for Regional and Northern Corridor Development.
Key Agency Appointments
- Raymond Omollo
Appointed to lead the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), where he will oversee tax collection and revenue mobilization efforts. - Dr. Patrick Amoth
Named Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA), tasked with restoring credibility and efficiency in medical supplies. - Anne Nderitu
Reappointed as Registrar of Political Parties for a second term, reinforcing the government’s commitment to electoral transparency. - Prof. Edward Kisiangani
Appointed Chairperson of the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) to oversee reforms in the education assessment system.
Other Significant Appointments
- Felix Koskei, Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, has been tasked with overall coordination of government operations to ensure efficiency and alignment with the President’s priorities.
- Dr. Joshua Kiptoo is the new Chairperson of the Teachers Service Commission (TSC).
- Caroline Nyawira has been appointed Chairperson of the National Police Service Commission (NPSC), where she will oversee police welfare and reforms.
Strategic Implications
President Ruto’s reshuffle reflects his administration’s focus on driving results through capable leadership and strategic alignment. The appointments are designed to accelerate the implementation of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, with particular emphasis on agriculture, ICT, and trade. By empowering young leaders and appointing experienced professionals, the government aims to strengthen governance, enhance service delivery, and achieve its development goals.
The nominees await vetting and approval by Parliament. If confirmed, they will assume critical roles in advancing Kenya’s socioeconomic priorities and ensuring efficient use of resources to benefit all citizens.
This reshuffle marks a pivotal moment in President Ruto’s administration, setting the tone for impactful governance and sustained development. Stay tuned for updates as the vetting process unfolds.
