CS Aden Duale congratulates Wajir governor on new role

By Robert Mutasi 

In a touching message shared on his social media handles on Monday, October 7, 2024, Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, Aden Duale joined other Kenyans in congratulating the Governor of Wajir, Hon. Ahmed Abdullahi, for unanimously being elected the new Chairperson of CoG. 

Duale expressed his confidence in the leadership of Abdullahi, adding that he would continue to champion devolution effectively.

"Congratulations to Hon. Ahmed Abdullahi, Wajir Governor, on his unanimous election as the new Chairperson of the CoG," Duale wrote. "We are confident that under his guidance, the Council will continue to champion devolution effectively."

Abdullahi's election now presents a significant transition at the helm of the CoG, taking over from Kirinyaga Governor, Hon. Anne Waiguru, whose term is now complete.

Her term of service was characterized by passion for devolution and building the capacity of county governments in service delivery to the people.

Under her leadership, various initiatives were rolled out to strengthen county governance and cooperation between counties1.

The incoming Chairperson, Hon. Ahmed Abdullahi, has built a reputation for commitment to public service and ideals of devolution.

This unanimous election reflects the confidence that his peers have in his ability to steer the Council towards realizing its set goals. 

The leadership of Abdullahi is likely to bring in fresh energy and focus to the Council by building on the successes his predecessor had attained and addressing ongoing issues affecting county governments2.

Besides congratulating Abdullahi, CS Duale also extended his best wishes to Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, who was elected Vice Chair of the Council. 

Kahiga's election is expected to complement that of Abdullahi and bring a wealth of experience besides collaborative spirit to the executive team of the Council.

The CoG in Kenya is a critical ingredient in the country's governance structure through offering a strong and united voice for county governments, catering to their interests at the national level.

The leaders of the Council play a significant role in ensuring the application of the principles of devolution by empowering county governments in the delivery of services.

With this mantle, Abdullahi faces the challenge of improving on his predecessor's successes while responding to persistent matters affecting the county governments. 

It is his leadership that will be instrumental in addressing the intricacies of devolution, ensuring that the Council remains an attractive force for the counties.

He, therefore, stands a greater chance of carrying the mantle to take the Council of Governors into the future of responsible and responsive governance with the backing of his peers and under the mentorship of seasoned leaders like CS Aden Duale.