Governor Abdi Hassan Guyo has announced a major Isiolo County cabinet reshuffle. The sweeping reorganization includes portfolio reassignments and the release of key officials. Moreover, observers view this as a decisive move to strengthen service delivery across the county.
The comprehensive changes appear in Executive Order No. 1 of 2025, issued September 1. Subsequently, the directive takes immediate effect. Additionally, this represents the most significant administrative shake-up since Guyo took office.
The Isiolo County cabinet reshuffle sees three acting County Executive Committee (CEC) members expand their responsibilities. Specifically, Dr. Lawrence Mwongela Ikiamba will serve as acting CEC for Water, Energy, Climate Change, Mining and Natural Resources.
Similarly, Health CEC Lucy Kagwiria Kaburu assumes oversight of multiple departments. These include Finance, Economic Planning, Revenue Services, and ICT. Furthermore, she will oversee e-Government, Special Programmes, Peace and Cohesion, plus Civic Education and Public Service.
Meanwhile, Agriculture CEC Yusuf Mohammed receives the consolidated docket of Lands, Roads, and Transport. His expanded portfolio also covers Public Works, Housing and Urban Development. Additionally, he oversees Infrastructure Development, Urban Planning and Municipal Services.
The cabinet reshuffle claimed several casualties. First, Yusuf Dahir, who headed the Department of Lands, Physical Planning, Housing and Urban Development, was dropped from the county executive lineup. Second, Ali Wario Sarita from the Department of Water, Environment, Energy, Natural Resources and Climate Change also faced removal.
Furthermore, Deputy Governor Dr. James Lowassa lost his additional responsibility. Previously, he had been overseeing Education and Early Childhood Development in an acting capacity.
Alongside the departures, Governor Guyo renewed contracts for 21 County Chief Officers. These positions span critical sectors including finance, education, and agriculture. Additionally, they cover health, youth and infrastructure departments.
The order specified that “all appointments made on an acting basis in respect of certain offices of county chief officers are hereby vacated.”
Notably, Ali Edin Abdi joins the administration as County Spokesperson. He brings extensive public service experience. Consequently, insiders believe this could transform how Isiolo communicates with residents and stakeholders.
Governor Guyo emphasized continuity for retained officials. He stated: “Save the re-assignments in the schedule, the conditions and terms of service of the CEC members remain as per their existing letters of appointment.”
The Isiolo County cabinet reshuffle has drawn cautious praise from county assembly members. Speaking anonymously to TTN News, one MCA welcomed the reorganization. He views it as evidence of the Governor’s commitment to accountability.
“It is a bold step,” the legislator observed. “It shows the Governor is listening to the ground.” Additionally, he noted the move injects fresh energy into the administration.
Political analysts view the restructuring strategically. They see it as part of Governor Guyo’s broader plan to streamline operations. Furthermore, it helps assert leadership as Isiolo faces persistent challenges. These include water management, urban development, education delivery, and youth empowerment programs.
