President William Ruto has announced sweeping changes to the structure and operations of the National Economic and Social Council (NESC), aiming to strengthen policy advisory systems within his administration.
In a gazette notice issued on March 28, the President outlined a new leadership framework that places him at the helm of the council.
In his absence, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi will chair meetings, and where both are unavailable, a private sector representative appointed by the President will take over.
The government says this arrangement is designed to bring stronger coordination and ensure continuity in decision-making, while also incorporating private sector perspectives into national planning.
The restructured council will consist of up to 15 experts drawn from Kenya and abroad, selected for their experience in economics, engineering, business, public service, and civil society.
Officials say the mix is intended to introduce fresh ideas into government policy formulation at a time when Kenya is facing economic challenges and growing public demand for jobs and improved services.
Key Cabinet Secretaries, including those responsible for the National Treasury, Foreign Affairs, Education, Trade, and Investments, will sit on the council as ex-officio members to align government priorities with advisory recommendations. Other senior officials may be invited depending on the agenda.
The council’s secretariat will be based in Nairobi under Mudavadi’s office and will be led by a CEO appointed by the President. It will be supported by technical experts responsible for research, data analysis, and policy development.
The changes come at a time when Kenya is debating key issues such as public debt, economic reforms, job creation, and long-term development planning.
The council is expected to play a key role in shaping strategies such as the proposed “Vision Centenary,” alongside addressing challenges like inequality and climate change.
With the new structure, the government appears to be positioning the NESC as a more influential and results-driven advisory body in national decision-making.
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