Outgoing Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has outlined the growth of the Office of the Government Spokesperson over the past 33 months, saying the institution has evolved into a modern government communication hub with an expanded workforce, new communication products and a stronger digital presence.
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.
Speaking during a farewell meeting with the office's 80-member staff at Harambee Annex in Nairobi, Mwaura reflected on what he described as the collective achievements made since he assumed office on October 5, 2023.
The meeting brought together officers from the office's six departments to review milestones, celebrate achievements and reflect on the institution's transformation.
During his tenure, the office expanded from a modest operation into a fully-fledged institution with 80 members of staff, six specialised departments and 33 communication products serving millions of Kenyans through television, radio, newspapers 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, policy explainers and public service announcements aimed at making government information more accessible.
The office also conducted 274 national press briefings, providing updates on government policies, development programmes and national issues.
Addressing staff, Mwaura credited the achievements to teamwork and shared commitment.
"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.
He urged the officers to uphold professionalism and continue strengthening public communication.
"Institutions are not built by one person. They are built by people who believe in a shared vision. Continue supporting one another, continue learning and never stop striving to communicate truthfully and professionally," Mwaura added.
One of the defining features of his tenure was the modernisation of government communication through the integration of social media, multimedia production and emerging artificial intelligence tools alongside traditional media platforms.
The Office of the Government Spokesperson also played a central role in coordinating 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.
Staff members paid tribute to Mwaura's leadership, saying he created an environment that encouraged innovation, mentorship and professional growth while fostering teamwork across the institution.
In his new role, he will spearhead national efforts to promote diversity, strengthen inclusion and advance the rights of persons with disabilities and other marginalised 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," he said.
