President William Ruto nominated Hannah Wendot Cheptumo, widow of the late Baringo Senator William Cheptumo, for the position of Cabinet Secretary (CS) in the Ministry of Gender, Culture, the Arts, and Heritage.
This nomination, announced by Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, is pending parliamentary approval.
The Ministry of Gender has been without a CS since August 2024, following the National Assembly Committee on Appointments’ rejection of Stella Soi Lang’at’s nomination.
The committee cited Lang’at’s inadequate responses during the approval hearing concerning gender, heritage, and culture issues as the reason for her disqualification.
Prior to this, the position was held by Aisha Jumwa, who was part of the dissolved Cabinet in July 2024. The prolonged vacancy has raised concerns among various stakeholders.
The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) emphasized the urgency of filling the position, highlighting the rise in femicide and violence against women and girls, and the lack of progress in addressing these issues.
Cheptumo’s nomination brings a wealth of experience and dedication to gender and cultural affairs.
Her appointment is anticipated to address the pressing issues facing women and cultural institutions in Kenya.
If approved, she will lead the ministry’s efforts in policy development and implementation aimed at promoting gender equality and cultural preservation.
As the nomination awaits parliamentary vetting, stakeholders and the public anticipate a renewed focus on gender equality and cultural heritage under Hannah Wendot Cheptumo’s potential leadership.
Her appointment could signify a pivotal step toward addressing longstanding challenges in these critical sectors.
