President William Ruto has reshaped leadership in several major government agencies, issuing a series of appointments and revocations published in the Kenya Gazette on February 6, 2026.
The changes place new leaders at the helm of institutions spanning sports, tourism, environmental research, wildlife conservation, and trade, signaling the government’s intent to boost governance and oversight in strategic sectors.
Among the top appointments, Maj. Gen. Alphazrd Muthuri Kiugu has been named Chairperson of the Anti-Doping Agency for a three-year term, replacing the official appointed in 2024. The move is seen as part of efforts to enhance oversight in sports administration and athletic compliance.
In the tourism sector, Mahmud Jan Mohamed takes over as Non-Executive Chairperson of the Council of Kenya Utalii College for three years. The college remains central to training skilled personnel for the country’s hospitality and tourism industry.
Rina Chatrath was appointed Non-Executive Chairperson of the Nairobi Centre for International Arbitration Board, an institution vital for commercial dispute resolution within Kenya and the wider region.
Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Walter Raria Koipaton will serve as Non-Executive Chairperson of the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) for three years, leading research on forest conservation and climate-related initiatives.
In wildlife conservation, Joseph Lagat was named Chairperson of the Kenya Wildlife Service Board, taking charge at a time when the sector faces growing challenges.
The agriculture and trade sector also saw a key leadership change, with Patrick Mukundi Mbogo appointed Chairperson of the Warehouse Receipt System Council. The council is crucial in stabilising agricultural markets and improving access to credit for farmers.
Lastly, George Kithi was named Chairperson of the Sports and Arts Fund Board for a three-year term, reflecting the government’s focus on promoting sports and creative industries.
All appointments are effective from February 6, 2026, and are anchored in relevant Acts of Parliament. They form part of President Ruto’s broader plan to strengthen governance and oversight in strategic public institutions across Kenya.
