The gazettement also includes 59 new divisions, 170 locations, and 322 sub-locations, marking a total of 578 newly established administrative units across Kenya.
Speaking through the notice, Mudavadi emphasized that the changes aim to meet the demands of a growing population and adhere to the government’s service delivery framework.
“These new administrative units will bring government services closer to citizens and enhance security in the affected regions,” Mudavadi stated.
The new sub-counties include Magarini South, Maua (formerly Igembe South), Tharaka West, Kolowa, Illeret, Samburu West, Embakasi North, and Embakasi Central, among others.
Each unit has designated headquarters, such as Chemolingot for Tiaty Central and Uranga for Siaya West, to streamline administrative operations.
The changes, which impact 31 counties, follow through on a February announcement by then-Interior CS Kithure Kindiki, who pledged to enhance service delivery by creating more administrative units.
Mudavadi noted that the initiative is grounded in Section 14(1) of the National Government Coordination Act, 2013, granting powers to establish administrative units for effective service coordination.
The new units will be manned by National Administration officers, including Regional Commissioners, County Commissioners, Sub-County Commissioners, Assistant County Commissioners, Chiefs, and Assistant Chiefs.
These officers will play a critical role in ensuring the smooth rollout and operation of the new units.
This expansion is expected to not only improve access to government services but also bolster security management by reducing administrative gaps in regions with high population growth and complex security dynamics.
The creation of the new units addresses a long-standing call for improved decentralization of government services.
By adding administrative layers, the government seeks to enhance its outreach and better address local challenges, particularly in marginalized and high-growth areas.