Kericho: A new County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Trade, Industrialization and Wildlife, Charles Birech, was sworn in during a ceremony presided over by Kericho Resident Magistrate Felisters Nekesa. The event was attended by Kericho Governor Dr. Eric Mutai, County Executive Committee Members, Members of the County Assembly, the County Attorney Gideon Mutai, and other senior county officials.
According to Kenya News Agency, Birech, in his maiden speech, promised to steer the docket to greater heights by modernizing markets, promoting industrial investment, and addressing wildlife matters. He emphasized supporting small-scale traders whose livelihoods depend on county-managed economic spaces. Resident Magistrate Nekesa highlighted that the oath taken by Birech was a commitment to remain accountable to the public, observe ethical standards, uphold the rule of law, and ensure all departmental decisions advance the welfare of the people of Kericho.
Governor Dr. Eric Mutai stated that Birech’s appointment is a strategic move aimed at strengthening the county’s development momentum, noting that the Trade docket plays a crucial role in stimulating economic activities, expanding market access, and improving the business environment for traders. He praised Birech’s exemplary performance in the previous administration, where he delivered key development projects and improved market infrastructure.
During the ceremony, Dr. Mutai issued appointment letters to the newly established Selection Panel for the County Public Service Board. The panel, chaired by Rosemary Chepkemoi Koech, includes private sector representative Ann Chepkirui Korir, Advocate Philip Langat, Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) representative Rop John Franklyn, and workers’ representative Hillary Kipkirui Rotich. The panel is tasked with overseeing a rigorous recruitment process to secure a Public Service Board capable of strengthening governance and improving service delivery.
Additionally, the Governor introduced the Selection Panel for the County Secretary and Head of Public Service. This second panel, chaired by Rose Chepngeno Kaptich, includes private sector representative David K. A. Siele, Advocate Caleb Cheruiyot Koech, ICPAK representative Cherono Fransisca Koech, and workers’ representative Alfred Cheruiyot Rop. Dr. Mutai directed the panel to commence their work promptly.
In his address, Birech expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and committed to delivering programmes that support traders, enhance market safety, expand industrial linkages, and create economic opportunities for youth, women, and small business operators across all sub-counties.
