Outgoing Government Spokesperson Dr. Isaac Mwaura on Sunday held an emotional farewell meeting with staff at Harambee Annex, marking the end of his tenure after 33 months and 17 days at the helm of the Office of the Government Spokesperson.
The six-hour meeting brought together the office’s 80-member team from its six departments for a session of reflection, appreciation and review of the institution’s growth since Mwaura assumed office on October 5, 2023, as the fifth Government Spokesperson under President William Ruto’s administration.
Addressing staff, Mwaura described the office’s transformation as a collective achievement driven by teamwork, professionalism and innovation.
“Today is not about saying goodbye. It is about celebrating what we have built together. Every milestone we have achieved carries the fingerprints of every member of this team. I may be leaving this office, but the institution we built together will continue serving Kenyans for many years to come,” he said.
Office Expanded Under Mwaura’s Leadership
During his tenure, the Office of the Government Spokesperson grew from a relatively small operation into an institution with **80 staff members**, six specialised departments and **33 communication products** distributed through television, radio, print and digital platforms.
Among the communication initiatives introduced were Sema na Spox Bonga na Gava, the Weekly Government Bulletin**, GoK Today, GAVA Quotes feature stories, public service announcements, policy explainers and multimedia content aimed at improving public access to government information.
The office also conducted **274 national press briefings**, providing updates on government policies, development programmes and major national events.
Embracing Digital Communication
A key feature of Mwaura’s tenure was the expansion of the office’s digital communication strategy.
The office strengthened its presence across social media platforms, increased multimedia production and integrated emerging artificial intelligence tools to complement traditional communication channels and broaden the reach of government information.
The Office of the Government Spokesperson also coordinated official communication during major national events, including the 2024 Gen Z protests, the Embakasi gas explosion, the El Niño emergency and the Elgeyo Marakwet mudslides, providing regular updates as government agencies responded to the crises.
Staff Pay Tribute
Several members of staff used the farewell meeting to acknowledge Mwaura’s leadership and mentorship, crediting him with creating opportunities for professional growth and fostering a collaborative work environment.
Others praised the culture of innovation, accountability and teamwork that developed during his leadership.
The event concluded with farewell messages, group photographs and moments of appreciation as colleagues reflected on their shared experiences.
New Role in the Executive Office of the President
Mwaura leaves the Office of the Government Spokesperson following his appointment as Head of the Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Disability Rights in the Executive Office of the President
In his new role, he will oversee efforts to advance diversity, promote inclusion and strengthen the rights and representation of persons with disabilities and other marginalized groups.
“Public service is a continuous journey. While my assignment is changing, my commitment to serving Kenya remains the same. I look forward to this new responsibility with the same passion and dedication that has guided me throughout my career,” Mwaura said.
He leaves behind an expanded institution with strengthened communication systems and a team expected to continue delivering timely government information to the public.
