Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii has for the fourth time in
two years, reshuffled his health executive in the latest cabinet changes aimed
at improving services.
Eng Joseph Lagat, who has served in the health docket for less than a year, has been moved to the Public Service, Management, Administration and Devolved Units docket, swapping positions with Janet Kurgat, who now becomes the fourth holder of the health docket under Bii’s administration.
The governor has also reassigned two of his chief officers.
He appointed Ambrose Tarus to the Department of Clinical
Services, while Ruth Samoei will serve as chief officer for Public Service Management
and will also act as chief officer for Devolution and Public Administration.
“The changes are intended to enhance efficiency and
effectiveness in the delivery of public services in Uasin Gishu,” said Bii as
he announced the changes in a statement.
The health docket has seen the highest turnover in Bii’s cabinet.
It was first held by Dr Julius Kotut, then Abraham Serem, followed by Joseph
Lagat and now Janet Kurgat.
The first three continue to serve as executives in Bii’s cabinet.
The governor has warned his executives to improve their
performance even as he maintains that his scorecard is impressive, noting that
he has delivered on most of his development pledges.
Bii says he is on course to fully implement his Nguzo Kumi (10-point)
development agenda, aimed at transforming the county through success in key
sectors that will uplift the lives of residents.
He emphasised his commitment to ensuring county resources are used for the benefit of residents through well-planned and effectively implemented projects.
The county boss has assured residents of his commitment to
ensuring access to education for all children in the county, saying the
initiative not only eases the financial burden on parents but also boosts the
livelihoods of dairy farmers.
“The programme is a testament to Uasin Gishu county’s
dedication to community-driven solutions that foster economic empowerment and
educational advancement,” Bii said.
Achievements in the health sector include the supply of
adequate drugs and essential medical items to hospitals to improve services.
Bii also introduced the use of drones to transport medical
samples and some emergency drugs within hospitals in the county. He sourced the
Sh400 million support from Israel that is helping to run the drones project.
“We have also started the development of our diagnostic
laboratory, which will go a long way in helping us further improve healthcare
in our county.”
He has also highlighted the improvement of more than 1,000km
of roads of all classes within both urban centers and rural areas.
According to him, the upgraded roads have boosted agricultural activities and improved the movement of goods and residents in the region.
Eldoret was upgraded to city status two years ago under
Bii’s administration. The governor says the county is working to host an investment
conference that will unlock its potential, attracting investors and creating
jobs.
INSTANT ANALYSIS
Governor Bii’s latest reshuffle shows a leadership style marked by frequent adjustments, especially in the health docket, which has now seen four executives in two years. While he frames the changes as efforts to boost efficiency, the high turnover suggests deeper challenges in stabilising the sector. His push to highlight achievements — drug supplies, drone delivery, road improvements, education support and new diagnostic facilities — signals an attempt to counter growing criticism, especially from MPs citing poor health services. The moves also appear aimed at tightening internal performance and reinforcing progress on his Nguzo Kumi agenda as he positions the county for investment and development.
