The picks include fresh faces, five of them to be exact, who bring a wealth of experience to their respective ministries as well as vast knowledge. Let’s take a look at them:
President William Ruto on Friday, July 19 began nominating 11 members that will form part of his broad-based Cabinet.
The announcement, made during his address to the nation at State House, followed extensive consultations with political allies and opposition figures, reflecting a strategic balance aimed at stabilising the administration while adding fresh energy into critical sectors.
“I have started the process of forming a new broad-based cabinet to assist in driving the urgently needed and irreversible transformation of our country. I nominate the following first batch of 11 individuals for consideration and approval by the National Assembly,” stated Ruto.
The picks include fresh faces, five of them to be exact, who bring a wealth of experience to their respective ministries as well as vast knowledge. Let’s take a look at them:
President William Ruto and his Cabinet posing for a photo after a meeting on July 4, 2024. /PCS
Dr. Debra Mlongo Barasa – Ministry of Health
A seasoned medical professional, Dr. Debra Mlongo Barasa will be tasked with navigating the murky aters of the Health Ministry, picking up from where Susan Nakhumicha left off.
With over 15 years of experience in internal medicine and infectious diseases, Dr. Barasa’s career spans roles in national and referral hospitals, private institutions, and community-based organisations.
Her leadership during outbreaks of diseases like COVID-19 and Ebola underscores her capability to handle the nation’s health crises.
Dr. Barasa’s academic credentials consist of a Master of Medicine in Internal Medicine, an ongoing MSc in Infectious Diseases from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, and a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery from the University of Nairobi.
Her professional journey includes roles as an Internal Medicine Consultant and Infectious Diseases Specialist at prestigious institutions like the Mater Hospital and the World Health Organization.
Dr. Margaret Nyambura Ndung’u – Ministry of ICT
Dr. Nyambura Ndung’u brings a cutting-edge perspective to the Ministry of Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy, a sector that includes the country’s technology, internet space and the media.
An expert in internet governance, cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence (AI), Dr Ndung’u has been pivotal in shaping the African Union’s Digital Transformation Strategy, and will go into the ICT ministry which is undergoing a revolutionary transformation.
Her contributions extend to the development of the AU Data Policy Framework and educational initiatives across the continent.
Dr. Ndung’u’s academic path includes a PhD in Information Systems, an MBA in Management Science, and a B.Sc. in Information Science from Moi University.
Her professional roles have seen her serve as a Senior Research Manager at the Global Digital Inclusion Partnership and a Senior Regulatory and Internet Governance Expert at the African Union Commission.
Dr Andrew Mwihia Karanja – Ministry of Agriculture
With over 36 years of experience in agriculture and rural development, Dr Andrew Mwihia Karanja is a formidable addition to the Cabinet.
His career began as an extension officer and evolved through various roles, including a Planning Officer at the Ministry of Agriculture and a Senior Agricultural Economist at the Coffee Research Foundation.
Dr. Karanja’s tenure at the World Bank as an Agricultural Economist further solidifies his expertise in agricultural policy and development.
Dr Karanja holds a PhD in Development Economics and Policy from Wageningen University, an MSc in Agricultural Economics, and a BSc in Agriculture from the University of Nairobi. His extensive experience includes leading economic assessments and project management for agricultural development initiatives.
Should he be confirmed by the National Assembly, one of his key tasks would be to clean up the mess made by his predecessor, Mithika Linturi, who was on the hot seat over the fake fertilizer scandal.
Eric Muriithi Mugaa – Ministry of Water
Eric Muriithi Mugaa, a civil engineer with a passion for water resources, steps into the Ministry of Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation, with a practical experience that spans the management of engineering projects, hydraulic modelling, and the design of water treatment plants.
Mugaa’s academic achievements include an MSc in Civil Engineering with a focus on Water Resources and a BSc in Civil and Construction Engineering from the University of Nairobi.
At just 32 years old, Mugaa has already made significant contributions as an Assistant Project Engineer for projects like the Water and Sanitation Development Project and the Kenya Towns Sustainable Water Supply and Sanitation Program.
Julius Migosi Ogamba – Ministry of Education
A legal professional with over 25 years of experience, Julius Migosi Ogamba is set to lead the Ministry of Education.
His extensive legal career includes roles as a Senior Partner at Migosi-Ogamba & Waudo Advocates and Chairman of the Kenya Electricity Generating Company.
Ogamba’s expertise in legal research, client counselling, and regulatory compliance positions him as a capable leader in the education sector.
Ogamba holds a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Nairobi and a Postgraduate Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law. His vision for education is expected to bring a blend of legal acumen and strategic oversight to the ministry.
It is worth noting that he was a running mate to his predecessor, Ezekiel Machogu, who was defeated in the 2022 general elections while vying for the Kisii gubernatorial seat.
President William Ruto chairing a Cabinet meeting at State House, Nairobi on March 7, 2024. /PCS