NAIROBI, Kenya- The government has officially elevated the Homa Bay County Commissioner’s residence to the status of a State Lodge following a gazette notice issued by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.
In Gazette Notice No. 7097 dated May 12, 2026, the Interior Ministry announced that the residence would immediately assume its new status.
“It is notified for general information of the public that the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration declares the Homa Bay County Commissioner’s Residence as a State Lodge as from the date of this publication,” the notice stated.
The declaration means the facility will now serve as an official government residence and host venue for high-level state functions, including presidential visits and official meetings outside Nairobi.
State Lodges in Kenya are used as secondary residences for the Head of State during regional tours and are managed under the State House Comptroller’s office.
They are distinct from State Houses, which serve as the President’s primary official residences and administrative centres.
The Homa Bay facility was reportedly completed ahead of the 2025 Madaraka Day celebrations hosted in the lakeside county and had previously hosted President William Ruto during the national event.
With the latest upgrade, Homa Bay joins a growing list of regions hosting State Lodges, including Kisumu, Kisii, Kakamega, Eldoret, Kitale, Kilifi and Sagana.
Government officials and local leaders say the move is expected to boost the county’s profile and improve its readiness to host national government functions and visiting dignitaries.
