Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has appointed Julius Aritho as the Acting Managing Director of the Kenya Literature Bureau (KLB) for a six-month tenure. This appointment comes in the wake of the end of service of the current Managing Director, Victor Lomaria, whose tenure is set to conclude on August 31, 2024.
The transition marks a significant leadership change at KLB, a key player in the Kenyan publishing and printing industry. Mr. Aritho’s appointment was officially communicated by KLB Board Chairperson Dr. Rispah Wepukhulu, who emphasized the need for continuity and cooperation among the Bureau’s staff during this transition period.
Smooth Transition
Dr. Wepukhulu expressed gratitude to the outgoing Managing Director, Mr. Lomaria, for his dedication and contributions to KLB during his tenure. “I take this opportunity to thank the outgoing Managing Director for his selfless acts of service that have seen the Bureau grow its bottom line,” she said in her statement to the press. She acknowledged Mr. Lomaria’s commitment to enhancing staff welfare and establishing KLB as a leading publishing and printing powerhouse in the region.
As the Bureau moves forward, Dr. Wepukhulu underscored the importance of teamwork and support for the new acting MD. “Staff are required to dedicate their energies towards fostering a team spirit aimed at ensuring a smooth transition until the appointment of a substantive Managing Director. Further, staff are urged to accord Mr. Aritho cooperation in the discharge of his duties for the success of the Bureau,” she added.
Aritho’s Vision for KLB
Julius Aritho, who assumes office on September 1, 2024, brings with him a wealth of experience in leadership and management. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to maintain the momentum of KLB’s growth and innovation, particularly in a time when the publishing industry is rapidly evolving due to digital transformations and changing market dynamics.
Mr. Aritho’s immediate task will be to steer the Bureau through this interim period, focusing on upholding the standards and objectives set by his predecessor while preparing the organization for a new era under the forthcoming substantive Managing Director. In his acting capacity, Aritho is expected to address current operational challenges and set the stage for long-term strategic planning that aligns with KLB’s mission of providing quality educational materials.
Acknowledging Lomaria’s Contributions
Victor Lomaria’s departure marks the end of an era at KLB. During his tenure, Lomaria was credited with several achievements that not only enhanced the Bureau’s financial performance but also solidified its reputation in the educational sector. His leadership saw KLB expand its reach and influence, becoming a pivotal player in the provision of educational resources across Kenya and beyond.
Under Lomaria’s guidance, KLB diversified its product offerings and improved its operational efficiencies, positioning itself as a key partner to the Kenyan education system. His emphasis on staff development and welfare has also been highlighted as a notable aspect of his legacy.
Future Prospects
The appointment of Julius Aritho as Acting MD signals a period of transition, with the Board of KLB expected to initiate the process of appointing a substantive Managing Director in the coming months. This period will be crucial in setting the future direction of the Bureau, especially as it navigates the challenges posed by technological advancements and shifts in the educational content landscape.
As KLB continues to fulfill its mandate of publishing and disseminating educational content, the leadership change aims to ensure that the Bureau remains resilient, adaptable, and ready to meet the evolving needs of learners, educators, and stakeholders.
With Mr. Aritho at the helm, KLB is poised to continue its legacy of excellence in educational publishing while embracing new opportunities for growth and innovation. The industry and stakeholders will be keenly watching as the Bureau embarks on this next chapter under his stewardship.
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