Ann Kananu Mwenda has been sworn in as the third Governor of Nairobi County at Kenyatta International Convection Centre Grounds.
Kananu, who has been acting governor since December 2020, replaces Mike Sonko who was impeached last year.
After taking the oath presided over by Judge Lillian Mutende, Kananu vowed to restore the Capital’s lost glory and ensure Nairobians get better and quality services.
“The responsibility bestowed upon me as governor of Nairobi is no mean feat. However, I confidently state that with your support I am up to the task and I will serve you to the best of my ability,” Kananu said.
Speaking after taking the oath of office, Kananu revealed a five-point stimulus programme that will ensure the county moves forward across all sectors.
She promised to have an all-inclusive and improved quality of early learning by employing an additional 219 ECDE teachers.
Kananu said she will focus on improving the health of children across the county by providing free milk to the 6,450 ECDE children across Nairobi.
“Improved water and sanitation for Nairobi residents in the Informal settlements through the sinking of boreholes and installation of 850 water tanks–10 tanks for every ward in the county,” she said.
She also promised to have a revitalised 24-hour economy that will create jobs for the youth.
Kananu said she will work with all stakeholders to ensure effective service delivery and improved quality of life for city residents.
“Further to ensure that Nairobi City County Government is effectively functioning I commit to working in collaboration and in harmony with the: Senate, National Government, Nairobi County Assembly, Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS), Development and diplomatic Partners, the Business Community and Nairobians,” she said.
Kananu added that by end of her first 30 days in office, she will have an elaborate post Covid Recovery Plan that will focus on improvements in security, local policing, lighting and sanitation.
This comes after the Supreme Court dismissed an application by Sonko challenging her appointment.
According to the Apex court, Sonko’s application lacked jurisdiction to entertain it.
“We lack jurisdiction to entertain the application. Objections by the clerk, Nairobi county assembly, and county assembly sustained. Motion dated October 23 is incompetent and hereby struck out,” the court said.
Kananu was subsequently vetted, approved and sworn in as deputy governor, but as she was preparing to take over as governor, Sonko moved to the High Court and obtained orders stopping the oath.