President William Ruto has reassigned two Principal Secretaries in changes announced on Thursday, according to a statement from the Executive Office of the President.
In a press release issued under “Notification of Presidential Action No. IX of 2026”, the Presidency stated the changes were made in accordance with Article 155(4) of the Constitution.
The announcement indicated that Kello Harsama had been transferred from the State Department for ASALs and Regional Development to the State Department for Petroleum.
Harsama succeeds Mohamed Liban, who stepped down in April 2026 as the Principal Secretary for the State Department for Petroleum.
“Caroline W. Karugu, who serves as Principal Secretary for East African Community (EAC) Affairs, has been appointed as Acting Principal Secretary for the State Department for ASALs and Regional Development while retaining her current role,” the statement read.
“The reassignments aim to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of the former Principal Secretary for the State Department for Petroleum and to ensure continued administration and coordination of Government functions within the affected State Departments.”
The statement further noted that the changes become effective immediately.
The press release was signed by Chief of Staff and Head of the Public Service, Felix Koskei.
The State Department for ASALs and Regional Development focuses on enhancing living conditions and development in Kenya’s arid and semi-arid regions.
It addresses drought management, food security, water projects, livestock support, and regional development initiatives in marginalized areas of the country.
The department also supervises various regional development authorities and works toward strengthening infrastructure, livelihoods, and climate resilience in dry regions.
Meanwhile, the State Department for Petroleum oversees Kenya’s oil, gas, and fuel sector.
It formulates petroleum policies, supervises oil and gas exploration, regulates fuel supply, manages petroleum licensing, and promotes investment in the petroleum industry.
The department collaborates with agencies including the Kenya Pipeline Company and the National Oil Corporation to maintain stable fuel supply and develop petroleum infrastructure.