Former Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Susan Nakhumicha has secured a top government appointment months after her dismissal from President William Ruto’s Cabinet. On March 20, 2025, President Ruto appointed Nakhumicha as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) in Nairobi.
A statement from State House confirmed her appointment, emphasizing that the decision was part of broader changes aimed at reorganizing the government. The statement, issued under Executive Order No. 1 of 2025, detailed the restructuring of state departments and reassignments within the nation’s foreign service.
“The Presidential Action, serialized as Executive Order No. 1 of 2025, includes nominations and reassignments within state departments and foreign service postings,” read the statement. The government cited the need to capitalize on opportunities in emerging sectors and address socio-economic challenges as the key drivers behind the changes.
The changes align with the administration’s commitment to accelerating the implementation of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which aims to boost economic growth and improve livelihoods.
Nakhumicha’s return to government service comes after a period of personal challenges following her dismissal in July 2024. During a memorial service for former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson Wafula Chebukati on March 7, she revealed that she had focused on farming and selling cabbages in Cherangany after her abrupt exit from the Cabinet.
Her dismissal was part of a broader reshuffle that saw several Cabinet Secretaries removed from office following public dissatisfaction with the government’s performance. Following her removal, Nakhumicha publicly sought prayers from ACK Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit, citing financial struggles and the difficulties of life after government service.
Western Kenya leaders, including Kiminini Member of Parliament Maurice Kakai, had urged President Ruto to reconsider Nakhumicha for a government position, highlighting her competence and dedication. Their calls appear to have been heeded with her latest appointment.
As she takes up her new role at UN-Habitat, Nakhumicha is expected to contribute to Kenya’s urban development and international diplomatic engagements, reinforcing the country’s commitment to sustainable human settlements.
