By Faith Anene – Kakamega County
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has sworn in 13 new Chief Officers, marking a major shake-up in the county government as he pushes to accelerate service delivery and development.
The swearing-in ceremony took place at Bukhungu Stadium, drawing a large crowd of county executives, dignitaries, and residents eager to witness the unveiling of what Governor Barasa called his “results-oriented team.”
Drawn from a mix of technical, financial, social and administrative backgrounds, the new officers have been tasked with taking over key departments immediately and turning around service delivery in one of Kenya’s most populous rural counties.
“We want you to serve the people of Kakamega with diligent,” Governor Barasa told the new chief officers. “We are here to fulfill our promises. I am confident you will help me deliver on my six point agenda,”
The governor, who is midway through his first term, used the event to reaffirm his commitment to accountability, grassroots development and people-first governance.
The newly sworn-in Chief Officers include Lawrence Mukoyani (Youth & Sports), Rose Muhanda (Public Health), Daniel Sumba (Cooperatives), Anselm Lubanga (Education), Eng. Ismael Makanga (Lands), Suleiman Wanekeya (ICT) and CPA Diminah Chikamai (Financial Management).
Others are Samuel Limisi (Economic Planning), Henry Kamuye (Special Programmes), Christine Oside (Social Services), Isaack Maalim (Technical Services), Mildred Okwako (Communication & e-Government), and Samuel Makokha (County Administration).
Each officer has been assigned a specific portfolio, and Governor Barasa made it clear that they will be judged by results.
“It’s people of Kakamega first. Your self-interest shall be second,” he warned. “We expect you to be visionary, accountable, and committed to the development of our county.”
The governor also used the opportunity to provide updates on two of his administration’s flagship projects – the construction of Kakamega Level Six Hospital and the Likuyani Industrial Park.
The Level Six Hospital, he said, is on track for completion by January 2026. Once finished, the facility is expected to revolutionise healthcare access for residents and reduce pressure on referral hospitals in neighbouring counties.
“This hospital will be a game-changer. We are not just building walls, we are building a healthier future for our people,” he said.
Governor Barasa also expressed optimism about the Likuyani Industrial Park, which he described as a critical step in tackling youth unemployment and boosting local manufacturing.
“The industrial park will create quality jobs and attract serious investment. It’s one of our most important legacy projects,” he noted.
