While County Governors often dominate headlines, it is their deputies who quietly ensure the smooth running of county governments. A recent Kenya Track Survey has ranked the nation’s most effective Deputy Governors, highlighting those who have transformed their roles into engines of stability, service delivery, and local development.
Reuben Kamuri of Laikipia County leads the rankings with 74 percent. Known as the chief stabilizer, Kamuri has played a pivotal role in peace-building and conflict resolution, creating a secure environment that allows the Governor to focus on strategic policy initiatives. His hands-on approach to governance has earned him widespread recognition for strengthening institutional stability across the county.
James Njoroge Muchiri of Nairobi follows with 70 percent. Operating in Kenya’s most politically intense county, Muchiri has been instrumental in ensuring the efficient delivery of city services from sanitation to market management. His ability to maintain administrative continuity amid competing political interests has been key to keeping Nairobi’s complex systems functional and responsive to citizen needs.
Muisrael Nyaga of Tharaka Nithi scored 69 percent. He is celebrated for his proactive engagement with local communities, particularly in food security initiatives. Nyaga’s focus on grassroots involvement and hands-on leadership has strengthened citizen trust and promoted effective implementation of county programs.
Martin Moshisho of Kajiado earned 67 percent. As a skilled mediator, Moshisho has played a central role in resolving land governance issues and overseeing spatial planning processes. His careful balancing of community interests with development priorities has helped Kajiado navigate sensitive matters while ensuring orderly growth.
Josphat Chirema Kombo of Kwale received 66 percent. Kombo has been a driving force behind health sector reforms and initiatives aimed at promoting coastal economic empowerment. His focus on improving access to healthcare and stimulating local economic opportunities has had a direct and positive impact on the livelihoods of residents.
Francis Thoya of Mombasa also scored 66 percent. Thoya has revitalized the county’s tourism sector while improving administrative efficiency. His technocratic approach to governance has helped Mombasa attract investment and maintain key public services, enhancing the county’s overall competitiveness.
David Githanda of Kirinyaga earned 64 percent. He has been instrumental in driving agricultural modernization and supporting farmers with programs that increase productivity and market access. Githanda’s leadership has strengthened Kirinyaga’s agricultural sector, ensuring it remains a critical contributor to the county’s economic growth.
Grace Jerotich Cheserek of Elgeyo Marakwet scored 61 percent. She is recognized for her advocacy of gender inclusion and her work reaching marginalized communities. Cheserek’s initiatives have expanded opportunities for women and vulnerable groups, ensuring more equitable development across the county.
Abdi Dagane Muhumed of Garissa is noted for his role in security coordination. His leadership in managing local security matters and maintaining peace in a challenging environment has been critical to safeguarding communities and enabling development initiatives to proceed smoothly.
Arthur Odera of Busia has strengthened cross-border trade and regional economic linkages. His efforts in enhancing trade infrastructure and facilitating commerce have contributed significantly to the county’s economic growth and integration with neighboring regions.
The Kenya Track Survey highlights a clear trend: Deputy Governors are no longer ceremonial figures. Their effectiveness is measured by tangible outcomes, institutional stability, and the trust they build within their communities.
These leaders are the unsung pillars of devolved governance, ensuring that county development plans are not only designed but successfully implemented.
Survey details indicate a sample size of 2,456 adults, with Reuben Kamuri of Laikipia scoring the highest at 74 percent. The key metric used was administrative stability and service delivery, and the survey was conducted by Kenya Track Survey.
