Kenya’s devolved system of governance, established by the 2010 Constitution, introduced the positions of Governors and Deputy Governors across the 47 counties. Deputy Governors play a pivotal role in county administrations, acting as principal assistants to Governors and stepping in during their absence. Their responsibilities encompass overseeing specific portfolios, ensuring policy implementation, and facilitating intergovernmental relations.
As of 2025, the following individuals serve as Deputy Governors in Kenya’s 47 counties:
List of Deputy Governors by County
- Mombasa County – Francis Thoya Foleni
- Kwale County – Josphat Chirema Kombo
- Kilifi County – Flora Mbetsa Chibule
- Tana River County – Mahadh Ali Loka
- Lamu County – Raphael Munyua Ndungu
- Taita Taveta County – Christine Saru Kilalo
- Garissa County – Abdi Dagane Muhumed
- Wajir County – Ahmed Muhumed Abdi
- Mandera County – Ali Maalim Mohamud
- Marsabit County – Solomon Gubo Riwe
- Isiolo County – Dr. James Lowasa
- Meru County – Isaac Mutuma M’Ethingia
- Tharaka-Nithi County – Muisrael Nyagah Derebia
- Embu County – Justus Kinyua Mugo
- Kitui County – Augustine Wambua Kanani
- Machakos County – Francis Mwangangi
- Makueni County – Lucy Mulili
- Nyandarua County – John Mathara Mwangi
- Nyeri County – David Kinaniri Waroe Mwangi
- Kirinyaga County – David Githanda Wachira
- Murang’a County – Stephen Mburu Munania
- Kiambu County – Rosemary Njeri Kirika
- Turkana County – John Lopeyok Erus
- West Pokot County – Dr. Nicholas Owon Atudonyang
- Samburu County – Gabriel Lenengwesi Samia
- Trans Nzoia County – Eng. John Barorot
- Uasin Gishu County – Evans Kipruto Kapkea
- Elgeyo-Marakwet County – Prof. Grace Jerotich Cheserek
- Nandi County – Dr. Yulita C. Mitei Cheruiyot
- Baringo County – Felix Kiplagat Maiyo
- Laikipia County – Reuben Kamuri Ngatia
- Nakuru County – David Kipkemoi Kones
- Narok County – Koech Kiprono Tamalinye
- Kajiado County – Martin Moshisho Martin
- Kericho County – Fredrick Kipngetich Kirui
- Bomet County – David Shadrack Rotich
- Kakamega County – Ayub Angatia Savula
- Vihiga County – Wilberforce Kitiezo Gwadoya
- Bungoma County – Janepher Chemtai Mbatiany
- Busia County – Arthur Odera
- Siaya County – William Oduol
- Kisumu County – Matthew Ochieng Owili
- Homa Bay County – Joseph Oyugi Magwanga
- Migori County – Joseph Gimunta Mahiri
- Kisii County – Robert Onsare Monda
- Nyamira County – James Ondicho Gesami
- Nairobi County – James Njoroge Muchiri
Observations and Trends
Gender Representation: Notably, there has been a gradual increase in female representation among Deputy Governors. Counties such as Kilifi, Bungoma, and Vihiga have women serving in these pivotal roles, reflecting a positive shift towards gender inclusivity in county leadership.
Professional Diversity: The current cohort of Deputy Governors boasts a diverse range of professional backgrounds, including academia, engineering, medicine, and public administration. This diversity enriches the leadership landscape, bringing varied expertise to county governance.
Political Dynamics: While Deputy Governors are elected on a joint ticket with Governors, instances of political disagreements have emerged in some counties. Such dynamics underscore the importance of clear role definitions and collaborative governance to ensure seamless county operations.
Deputy Governors are integral to the success of Kenya’s devolved governance system. Their roles, though sometimes underappreciated, are crucial in policy implementation, administrative oversight, and ensuring continuity in leadership. As Kenya continues to strengthen its county governments, the contributions of these leaders remain indispensable to achieving localized development and governance objectives.
