Kilifi County, located along Kenya’s coastal region, is currently led by Governor Gideon Mung’aro. Known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and agricultural resources, Kilifi is also a key player in Kenya’s devolution system, where county governments handle local governance and service delivery.
The structure of the Kilifi County Government includes 10 County Executive Committee (CEC) members, often referred to as county ministers. These individuals manage various sectors crucial to the county’s development, ranging from finance to health and infrastructure. Below is an updated list of the current Kilifi County Government ministers (CECs).
Kilifi County Government Ministers (CECs)
| Ministry | Minister (CEC) |
|---|---|
| 1. Finance and Economic Planning | Yaye Shosi Ahmed |
| 2. Health and Sanitation Services | Peter Mwarogo |
| 3. Water, Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change | Omar Said Omar |
| 4. Lands, Energy, Physical Planning, Housing & Urban Development | Jane Maiki Kamto |
| 5. Public Works, Roads and Transport | Catherine Kenga |
| 6. Education, Vocational Training and ICT | Clara Ningome Chonga |
| 7. Gender, Culture, Youth Affairs, Sports and Social Services | Dr. Ruth Dama Masha |
| 8. Tourism, Trade and Cooperative Development | John Raymond Ngala |
| 9. Public Service, Special Programmes and Disaster Management | Felkin Kaingu Dena |
| 10. Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries | Dr. Peterson Chula Mwagona |
These CECs are responsible for implementing the county’s development agenda and providing services to Kilifi’s residents. Their roles align with Kilifi’s economic priorities, which include improving education, infrastructure, and agricultural production, while also promoting environmental sustainability and climate change resilience.
County Ministers (CECs) Salaries in Kenya
County Executive Committee (CEC) members are entitled to competitive salaries as outlined by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC). This compensation is part of Kenya’s effort to ensure that county governments attract skilled and qualified personnel to manage local affairs effectively.
Here is a breakdown of the salary structure for CECs in Kilifi County and other counties in Kenya:
| Component | Amount (Ksh) |
|---|---|
| Basic Salary | 242,550 |
| House Allowance | 45,000 |
| Market Adjustment | 81,700 |
| Total Salary Per Month | 404,250 |
In addition to their salaries, CECs may also be entitled to various allowances and benefits depending on their roles and responsibilities, including official transport and medical insurance, to facilitate their service delivery.
Role of Kilifi County Government in Economic Development
Kilifi County plays a vital role in driving economic growth, not just for its residents but for the wider coastal region. Under Governor Gideon Mung’aro’s leadership, the county has focused on sectors like agriculture, which supports a majority of the population, and tourism, which is a key revenue generator for the region.
Agriculture: Dr. Peterson Chula Mwagona, the CEC for Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries, oversees efforts to boost food production through modern farming techniques and investments in livestock and fisheries. Agriculture is a crucial pillar of the county’s economy, and Kilifi is known for its production of crops like coconuts, maize, and mangoes.
Tourism: John Raymond Ngala, the CEC for Tourism, Trade, and Cooperative Development, leads initiatives aimed at promoting Kilifi as a premier tourist destination in Kenya. With its pristine beaches, historical sites like the Mnarani ruins, and vibrant local culture, Kilifi continues to attract local and international tourists. The county is also working on improving trade infrastructure and supporting local enterprises through cooperative development.
Infrastructure: Catherine Kenga, the CEC for Public Works, Roads, and Transport, is focused on enhancing the county’s transport network, making it easier for residents and businesses to connect. Improved roads and infrastructure are key to Kilifi’s development agenda, ensuring that both urban and rural areas benefit from better access to markets and services.
Education and ICT: With Clara Ningome Chonga at the helm of the Education, Vocational Training, and ICT docket, the county has placed a high priority on equipping its youth with skills that are essential in the modern job market. Through vocational training and ICT programs, Kilifi County aims to bridge the skills gap and boost employment opportunities for young people.
Kilifi County’s leadership, spearheaded by Governor Gideon Mung’aro and supported by a dedicated team of CECs, is working towards the county’s continued growth and development. With key ministers overseeing sectors such as finance, health, agriculture, and tourism, the county is poised to strengthen its economy, improve public services, and enhance the quality of life for its residents. Through collaboration, innovation, and effective governance, Kilifi is shaping its future as a dynamic and prosperous county in Kenya’s coastal region.
