Michael Lenasalon Takes Over as Principal Secretary for Devolution, Pledges Renewed Commitment to Strengthening County Governance.

(left) Outgoing PS, Ms. Teresia Mbaika, (right) Mr. Michael Lenasalon, new Principal Secretary (PS).

NAIROBI, Kenya, April 22, 2025:

Mr. Michael Lenasalon has officially assumed office as the new Principal Secretary (PS) for the State Department for Devolution, following a formal handing over ceremony held at Telposta Towers. The transition was officiated by the outgoing PS, Ms. Teresia Mbaika, who now serves in the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.

The State Department for Devolution, under the Office of the Deputy President, plays a critical role in promoting and coordinating devolution across Kenya. Its core mandate includes empowering county governments, enhancing public service delivery at the grassroots level, building intergovernmental relations, and fostering capacity-building initiatives for devolved units.

In her remarks, Ms. Mbaika highlighted the department’s recent milestones in strengthening governance structures, decentralizing resources, and ensuring greater citizen participation in local development. She expressed confidence in Mr. Lenasalon’s ability to build on this progress, stating that his leadership would be instrumental in deepening the gains of devolution.

Mr. Lenasalon, in his inaugural address, pledged to prioritize partnerships with county governments, enhance fiscal accountability, and advance development planning that reflects the needs of local communities. He emphasized the importance of inclusive governance and reiterated his commitment to working closely with stakeholders to tackle emerging challenges in the devolution space.

“As we enter the next phase of devolution, I intend to work collaboratively with all counties to ensure that devolution delivers on its promise bringing government services closer to the people and empowering local economies,” Mr. Lenasalon said.

As the new PS takes office, Kenyans will be looking to the ministry for continued support in strengthening the frameworks of county governance, promoting transparency, and ensuring effective service delivery that improves the lives of citizens across all 47 counties.

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