KENYAN PRESIDENT WILLIAM RUTO MAKES NEW APPOINTMENTS TO PARASTATAL BOARDS

Nairobi – October 26, 2025

President William Ruto has made a fresh wave of appointments to several state corporation boards, in a move that underscores his administration’s continued restructuring of key public institutions.

The appointments, announced through a Gazette Notice dated October 24, include the naming of former Kipkelion East MP Joseph Kirui Limo as the new Non-Executive Chairperson of the Gambling Regulatory Authority, established under the recently enacted Gambling Control Act, 2025.

Limo’s appointment marks one of the most notable inclusions in the new list, which is expected to take effect immediately. The Gambling Regulatory Authority replaces the Betting Control and Licensing Board, signalling a policy shift toward tightening oversight in Kenya’s fast-growing betting sector.

The latest round follows similar changes made in August and September this year, when President Ruto and several Cabinet Secretaries reconstituted boards across health, education, infrastructure and financial agencies.

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A CONTINUING SHAKE-UP

The ongoing reshuffles are seen as part of Ruto’s plan to streamline governance and inject fresh leadership into parastatals that have long been marred by inefficiency and mismanagement. Government insiders have said the appointments aim to align parastatal operations with the administration’s economic reform agenda and enhance accountability in state-owned enterprises.

Among the newly appointed officials are a mix of technocrats, former legislators and professionals drawn from diverse backgrounds. Several appointees are expected to bring experience in public finance, governance, and private sector management.

While the President has emphasised performance and service delivery, the appointments also carry political significance as the government consolidates support ahead of the 2027 elections. Some analysts view the selections as part of efforts to reward loyalty and maintain stability within the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition.

THE NEW ERA OF REGULATION

The creation of the Gambling Regulatory Authority reflects a broader shift in Kenya’s gaming policy. The new body will regulate betting, lotteries and gaming activities, streamline licensing, and ensure compliance with the Gambling Control Act. Authorities say the new law aims to combat illegal gambling, protect minors and promote responsible betting practices.

The Act also mandates stronger financial audits, data transparency and collaboration between regulators and enforcement agencies. The appointment of Limo, a former chair of the National Assembly’s Finance Committee, is seen as a step toward achieving tighter fiscal oversight of the industry.

GOVERNMENT’S ECONOMIC DRIVE

The renewed appointments come amid President Ruto’s economic transformation plan, which includes reforms to parastatals handling critical infrastructure, agriculture, and financial services. Kenya continues to face mounting debt repayments, and the government has repeatedly stated that efficient parastatal management is key to revenue growth.

Earlier this month, Ruto said his government would focus on strengthening corporate governance in public institutions to improve service delivery and restore public trust. He also reaffirmed plans to set up sovereign wealth and infrastructure funds to attract investment and boost domestic capital formation.

WHAT’S NEXT

The new boards are expected to begin operations in November, with induction sessions scheduled for early next month. Ministries have been directed to ensure all newly appointed members declare their assets and undergo integrity vetting.

The Office of the Head of Public Service said the appointments were made following consultations with sectoral ministries and adherence to the State Corporations Act.

As Kenya awaits the implementation of these changes, the effectiveness of the new leadership teams will be closely watched, particularly in how they balance policy execution, financial accountability and political expectations.