By Jeff Kizzilah Digital Editor
Outgoing Government Spokesman Dr. Isaac Mwaura has praised ministries, state departments and government agencies that excelled in public communication and citizen engagement as he concluded his two-year and 10-month tenure.
Speaking during the official handover of office, Dr. Mwaura said effective communication has become a critical pillar of good governance, enabling the government to build public trust, explain policies and demonstrate the impact of development programmes on the lives of Kenyans.
He ranked the National Treasury as the best-performing ministry in government communication, applauding Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi for simplifying complex economic and fiscal matters into information that ordinary citizens can easily understand. He noted that regular media briefings and clear explanations of the national budget, tax policies, public debt management and economic recovery initiatives had significantly improved public understanding of government policy.
“The Treasury has demonstrated that even highly technical economic information can be communicated in a way that citizens can relate to. The ability to simplify without losing accuracy is a major strength,” Dr. Mwaura said.
The Ministry of Health was ranked second for maintaining consistent communication despite challenges such as health financing pressures, disease outbreaks, health worker concerns and ongoing health sector reforms. Dr. Mwaura praised the ministry for keeping Kenyans informed on vaccination programmes, digital health reforms, emergency response measures and other key health initiatives.
The Ministry of Agriculture secured third place for its sustained public engagement on programmes affecting farmers, food production and agricultural transformation. He commended the ministry’s communication on fertiliser subsidies, crop support initiatives, irrigation projects and food security interventions through both mainstream and digital platforms.
Among state departments, the State Department for Internal Security, led by Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo, was recognised as the top performer for timely and coordinated communication on national security, disaster response, public safety and government operations.
The State Department for Housing and Urban Development, under Principal Secretary Charles Hinga, received recognition for effectively communicating the Affordable Housing Programme, including construction progress, employment opportunities and the wider economic benefits of the initiative.
Dr. Mwaura also applauded the State Department for Public Health, led by Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni, for its strong public engagement on preventive healthcare, disease surveillance, community health services and health promotion campaigns.
The State Department for Diaspora Affairs, headed by Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu, was commended for actively engaging Kenyans living abroad through communication on diaspora investment opportunities, consular services, labour mobility programmes and the welfare of Kenyans overseas.
Among government agencies, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) emerged as the best communicator, earning praise for regular updates on major road projects, traffic management, infrastructure development and travel advisories. The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) ranked second for effectively communicating developments at the Port of Mombasa, expansion projects, cargo performance and regional trade initiatives.
For constitutional commissions and independent offices, the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) was recognised for its consistent communication on gender equality, inclusion, disability rights and the protection of vulnerable groups.
Reflecting on his tenure, Dr. Mwaura emphasised that government communication should be proactive rather than reactive, helping explain policies, counter misinformation and provide timely, accurate information to citizens.
He said one of the key lessons from his time in office is that effective public communication bridges the gap between government policy and public understanding, reducing speculation while strengthening transparency and accountability.
As he leaves office, Dr. Mwaura expressed confidence that the progress made in strengthening government communication would continue, noting that effectively telling the government’s story remains essential in informing citizens about both national challenges and development achievements.
He urged all public institutions to embrace communication as a tool for transparency, inclusion, national cohesion and public confidence, adding that an informed citizenry is fundamental to the success of a democratic government.
