Nairobi, Kenya – March 26, 2025
In a significant move to steer Kenya toward its socio-economic transformation goals, His Excellency the President has announced a fresh set of Cabinet nominations and portfolio re-assignments. The announcement, made through a press release from the Executive Office of the President, highlights the administration’s commitment to leveraging experienced and diverse leadership to address the nation’s pressing challenges.
The press release, dated March 26, 2025, and signed by Felix K. Koskei, EGH, Chief of Staff and Head of the Public Service, outlines two key actions: the nomination of new Cabinet Secretaries and the re-assignment of portfolios for existing members of the Cabinet. These changes, pending parliamentary approval, are set to bolster the government’s capacity to deliver on its promises to the Kenyan people.
New Cabinet Nominees: A Blend of Experience and Vision
Under Article 152(2) of the Constitution of Kenya, the President has nominated two individuals to join the ranks of the nation’s apex policy organ as Cabinet Secretaries. The nominees are:
- Ms. Hanna Wendot Cheptumo – Nominated for the Ministry of Gender, Culture, The Arts & Heritage.
Ms. Cheptumo brings a wealth of experience in cultural preservation and gender advocacy, having worked extensively in community development programs across Kenya. Her nomination signals the administration’s focus on promoting cultural heritage and advancing gender equality as key pillars of national development. - Hon. Geoffrey K. Kiriga Ruku – Nominated for the Ministry of Public Service, Human Capital Development & Special Programmes.
Hon. Ruku, a seasoned politician and public servant, is expected to drive reforms in the public service sector, with a particular emphasis on human capital development. His appointment underscores the government’s priority to enhance efficiency and innovation within the public sector while addressing the needs of special programs aimed at marginalized groups.
The press release emphasizes that the nominees are expected to bring not only their illustrious careers but also their wisdom, gained from inspiring and diverse life journeys, to the Cabinet. If approved by Parliament, they will play a pivotal role in shaping policies that align with Kenya’s long-term development agenda, including the Vision 2030 framework.
Portfolio Re-Assignments: Strengthening Key Ministries
In addition to the new nominations, the President has re-assigned portfolios for two existing Cabinet Secretaries, in line with Article 152(5)(a) of the Constitution. The re-assignments are as follows:
- Hon. Aden Bare Duale, EGH – Re-assigned to the Ministry of Health.
Hon. Duale, a prominent figure in Kenyan politics, previously served as the Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Forestry. His move to the Ministry of Health comes at a critical time as Kenya continues to address public health challenges, including improving healthcare access and strengthening the country’s response to emerging health crises. Duale’s leadership is expected to bring renewed energy to the health sector, building on his track record of effective governance. - Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa – Re-assigned to the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change & Forestry.
Dr. Barasa, who previously held the health portfolio, will now oversee the critical docket of environment and climate change. With Kenya facing the impacts of climate change, including prolonged droughts and deforestation, Dr. Barasa’s expertise in policy implementation and her background in sustainable development will be instrumental in advancing the country’s environmental agenda. Her appointment also reflects the administration’s commitment to prioritizing climate action as a national imperative.
A Vision for Transformation
The press release underscores the President’s vision for these changes, stating that they are “by virtue of the Presidential Action, Cabinet is set to achieve its constitutional full strength; a move that bolsters the Administration’s capacity to continue to steer Kenya’s socio-economic transformation.” The re-assignments and nominations are strategic moves aimed at ensuring that the Cabinet is well-equipped to tackle the multifaceted challenges facing the nation, from healthcare and environmental sustainability to public service reform and cultural preservation.
The President congratulated the nominees and conveyed his best wishes as they undergo the requisite parliamentary approval process, in fulfillment of the legal requirements set under the Constitution. The nominees will face vetting by Parliament, a process that ensures transparency and accountability in the appointment of high-ranking public officials.
What This Means for Kenya
The announcement has sparked widespread discussion among Kenyans, with many expressing optimism about the potential impact of the new appointees and re-assignments. The inclusion of Ms. Cheptumo in the gender and culture docket has been particularly well-received by advocates for women’s rights and cultural preservation, who see her as a champion for underrepresented communities. Similarly, Hon. Ruku’s nomination to the public service ministry has been hailed as a step toward modernizing Kenya’s public sector, which has often been criticized for inefficiency.
On the other hand, the re-assignment of Hon. Duale and Dr. Barasa has raised questions about continuity in their previous dockets. However, analysts note that the President’s decision to swap their portfolios may be a strategic move to bring fresh perspectives to both the health and environment sectors, which are critical to Kenya’s development goals.
Looking Ahead
As the nominees await parliamentary approval, all eyes will be on the National Assembly to see how swiftly the vetting process unfolds. Once approved, the new Cabinet Secretaries will join their colleagues in what the President has described as a “full-strength” Cabinet, ready to drive Kenya’s socio-economic transformation.
The changes come at a pivotal moment for Kenya, as the country grapples with economic recovery, climate change, and the need for inclusive growth. With a renewed Cabinet, the administration hopes to deliver on its promises to the Kenyan people, ensuring that the nation remains on a path toward sustainable development and prosperity.
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Notes for AYROTV.com Editors
