President William Ruto has made a significant government reorganization through Executive Order No. 1 of 2025, reshuffling key officials in both the Executive Office and the foreign service. These changes are aimed at enhancing governance, strengthening diplomatic ties, and accelerating the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
Among the most notable appointments is former Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha Wafula, who has been named Kenya’s Permanent Representative to the UN-Habitat in Nairobi.
Read: C.S Nakhumicha Commits to Patient Rights and Safety
Susan Nakhumicha’s Return to Public Service
Nakhumicha served as Health CS from October 2022 to July 2024, overseeing critical healthcare reforms. However, her tenure was marred by challenges, including a 56-day doctors’ strike that crippled healthcare services nationwide.
Her time in office ended when President Ruto dismissed the entire cabinet following nationwide anti-government protests over tax increases under the Finance Bill 2024.
Following her dismissal, Nakhumicha acknowledged the difficult transition from a high-profile government role to private life. Her new diplomatic post marks a political comeback, positioning her at the forefront of Kenya’s engagement with the United Nations on urban development and sustainable cities.
Other Key Appointments in the Reshuffle
In addition to Nakhumicha, President Ruto has made other high-profile diplomatic appointments. James Buyekane Muhati has been named Consul-General in Guangzhou, China, while Abdi Dubat Fidhow will serve as Consul-General in Arusha, Tanzania.
Eng. Peter Tum has been appointed Ambassador to Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.
In the Executive Office, President Ruto has also promoted Mr. Amos Gathecha from Principal Secretary for Public Service to Deputy Head of the Public Service. Additionally, Prof. Edward Kisiang’ani has been appointed Senior Advisor and Member of the President’s Council of Economic Advisors.
Strategic Shift in Governance
This reshuffle signals President Ruto’s commitment to revitalizing government operations and aligning leadership with national priorities.
By placing experienced officials in strategic positions, the government aims to improve efficiency in service delivery and enhance Kenya’s diplomatic influence on the global stage. The nominees will assume office following necessary vetting and approvals as required by law.
