NAIROBI, Kenya — President William Ruto has reassigned two Principal Secretaries in fresh changes affecting the State Departments for Petroleum and ASALs and Regional Development.
The changes were announced Thursday through “Notification of Presidential Action No. IX of 2026” issued by the Executive Office of the President.
According to the statement, Kello Harsama has been moved from the State Department for ASALs and Regional Development to the State Department for Petroleum.
Harsama Replaces Liban
Harsama takes over from Mohamed Liban, who resigned in April 2026 as Principal Secretary for Petroleum.
The Presidency said the reshuffle was aimed at ensuring continuity in government operations following the vacancy left by Liban’s exit.
“Caroline W. Karugu, who serves as Principal Secretary for East African Community (EAC) Affairs, has been designated as Acting Principal Secretary for the State Department for ASALs and Regional Development in addition to her current role,” the statement read.
“The reassignments are intended to fill the vacancy arising from the resignation of the immediate former Principal Secretary for the State Department for Petroleum and to ensure continuity in the administration and coordination of Government functions within the affected State Departments.”
The changes take effect immediately.
The statement was signed by the Chief of Staff and the Head of the Public Service, Felix Koskei.
Key Role in the Energy Sector
The State Department for Petroleum plays a central role in Kenya’s energy sector.
It is responsible for petroleum policy development, regulation of fuel supply, oil and gas exploration oversight, licensing, and coordination of investments in the petroleum industry.
The department also works closely with agencies including the Kenya Pipeline Company and the National Oil Corporation of Kenya in managing fuel infrastructure and ensuring stable petroleum supply across the country.
Harsama now assumes office at a time when Kenya continues to pursue energy security, regional fuel trade expansion, and petroleum infrastructure development.
ASAL Department Leadership Changes
The State Department for ASALs and Regional Development oversees government programmes in arid and semi-arid regions.
Its mandate includes drought management, food security programmes, livestock support, water projects, and climate resilience initiatives targeting marginalized communities.
The department also supervises regional development authorities tasked with improving infrastructure and livelihoods in dry regions.
Karugu will temporarily oversee the docket in an acting capacity while continuing with her responsibilities in the East African Community Affairs ministry.
