President William Ruto has announced a series of leadership changes across government institutions, appointing new chief executives to five organisations and nominating Lydia Sitienei Chelagat as the next Data Commissioner.
The appointments, announced on Monday, November 9, 2026, affect the Privatisation Authority, Kenya National Entrepreneurs Savings Trust (KNEST), Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK), National Housing Corporation (NHC) and the Regional Centre on Groundwater Resources Education, Training and Research in Eastern Africa (RCGW).
Government Spokesperson Charles Owino confirmed Chelagat’s nomination in a statement, saying the decision followed a recommendation by the Public Service Commission.
“His Excellency the President has, in accordance with the recommendation of the Public Service Commission and in exercise of the constitutional prerogative vested in the Head of State and Government, nominated Ms Lydia Sitienei Chelagat as Data Commissioner,” Owino stated.
Chelagat has been serving as Director of Legal Services and Corporation Secretary at the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA).
She is expected to succeed Immaculate Kassait, subject to consideration and approval by the National Assembly.
Waweru Karanja appointed Privatisation Authority CEO
In another appointment, Ruto named Waweru Karanja as the Chief Executive Officer of the Privatisation Authority.
The position had previously been held in an acting capacity by Dr Janerose Omondi, who took over in June 2025 following the departure of Dr Joseph Koskey after completing his two terms.
Omondi has now been appointed Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya National Entrepreneurs Savings Trust (KNEST).
Before the latest appointment, she had served as the organisation’s transactions manager for more than seven years, overseeing various privatisation-related transactions.
Her experience in the sector is expected to inform her new responsibilities at KNEST.
Peninah Wangare Wahome confirmed as ADAK CEO
At the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK), Peninah Wangare Wahome has been confirmed as the organisation’s Chief Executive Officer.
Wahome had already been serving in the position in an acting capacity before receiving the substantive appointment.
ADAK plays a key role in protecting the integrity of sports in Kenya through anti-doping education, testing and enforcement of relevant regulations.
Her confirmation comes as Kenya continues to strengthen efforts to address doping concerns and safeguard the country’s reputation in international athletics.
John Washington Agutu takes acting role at National Housing Corporation
Ruto also appointed John Washington Agutu as Acting Chief Executive Officer of the National Housing Corporation (NHC).
Agutu previously served as the corporation’s General Manager in charge of Estates.
According to the NHC 2022/2023 annual report, he is a registered valuer and estate agent with 24 years of experience in estate management, housing development, financing and property valuations.
His appointment places him at the helm of an institution involved in housing development and the management of public housing initiatives.
Wakhungu Patrick Murunga appointed RCGW CEO
Wakhungu Patrick Murunga completes the list of chief executive appointments after being named head of the Regional Centre on Groundwater Resources Education, Training and Research in Eastern Africa.
The institution focuses on education, training and research relating to groundwater resources in the Eastern African region.
His appointment forms part of the wider leadership changes announced by the President.
Two appointments made in acting capacity
Of the five chief executive appointments announced, Agutu and Omondi are the only two taking up their positions in an acting capacity.
Karanja, Wahome and Murunga have been named to lead their respective institutions, while Chelagat’s nomination as Data Commissioner remains subject to parliamentary consideration.
The changes affect several government agencies responsible for privatisation, enterprise savings, sports integrity, housing and groundwater research.
Further details on the transition arrangements and the effective dates of the appointments are expected from the respective institutions.
Also Read:Â Police Recover 100 Stolen Phones as Nairobi Crackdown on Armed Robberies Intensifies