Governor Wanga Picks Journalist Ongiri For Cabinet Role

By Suleiman Mbatiah

In a move to bolster her administration and service delivery, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has nominated veteran journalist Isaac Ongiri into the executive.

Ongiri who previously served as Chief Officer in the same department will, if approved by the Assembly, serve as the minister for Governance, Administration, Communication and Devolution.

He previously worked in county governments as a director in Kisii and Makueni, gaining experience in governance systems, institutional management and public communication within devolved units.

He holds a degree in Communications and Public Relations from Moi University and a Master of Arts in International Relations from the University of Nairobi.

“He is very knowledgeable in governance and public service and is well trained in communications with experience of working in county governments,” she stated.

On his part, Ongiri expressed gratitude and humility following the nomination, describing it as a privilege to serve residents of Homa Bay in another capacity.

He said he remains committed to live up to that trust bestowed on him by the Governor, vowing to remain loyal and promise to serve with honour.

“Finally, we thank the Almighty God for always watching over us as we forge forward. Asante,” he said, expressing optimism that the Assembly would approve him.

At the same time, the Governor nominated Elijah Dede, from Ndhiwa Constituency, to serve as the County Executive Committee Member in charge of Trade, Industry, Tourism, Marketing and Co-operative Development.

He holds a Bachelor of Arts Sociology Degree from the University of Nairobi and an Executive Master of Business Administration. He served as chief officer in the same department before moving to Roads and Public Works.

He previously served as the CEO, Kenya Bankers Sacco. Courtesy to his leadership of the department, 127 new co-operatives were registered and 10 dormant ones revived. Membership grew from 29,000 to 40,000 with asset expansion growing from Kshs. 200 Million to Kshs. 500 Million.

“He led the enactment of the Co-operatives Policy. Given our investment in Agriculture, the promising Co-operatives Sector and his 16 years’ experience in co-operative management, he will serve well in Trade and Co-operatives Portfolio,” she stated.

She also re-assigned Dr Joash Aloo to serve as the County Executive Committee Member in charge of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock Development moving from Trade, Industry, Tourism, Marketing and Co-operative Development and before that Water and Sanitation.

She said Dr Aloo has had tangible and positive impact in previous dockets and I have no doubt he will move our Agriculture to the next level, paying meticulous attention to various agricultural value chains.