In the heart of Laikipia’s South Marmanet forest, where residents of Mutitu location gathered for a tree-planting drive, Lands, Housing and Urban Development Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome took a firm stance not just on reforestation, but also on her commitment to public service.
Amid swirling rumors on social media suggesting her impending resignation, Wahome was clear and composed in her response: “That’s pure daydreaming,” she said with a dismissive wave. “I cannot resign from a government I passionately helped to form.”
Wahome’s remarks followed the recent exit of unnamed officials, whose dismissal sparked speculation that she might be next. But she brushed it off, framing her tenure in the Kenya Kwanza government as a matter of merit and accountability.
“Those who were removed weren’t delivering. I am working,” she said. “Productivity is what keeps one in office.”
The event wasn’t just about political statements. Wahome was leading from the front in a monthly national initiative aimed at restoring Kenya’s forests part of the government’s bold plan to plant 15 billion trees in the next 10 years. Each Cabinet Secretary has been tasked with leading this effort in at least two counties. For Wahome, that means Nyeri and Laikipia.
Beyond the forest floor, she pointed to broader government successes, particularly in security. “The President’s efforts to reduce banditry in Laikipia are already bearing fruit,” she said. “These are the outcomes we must prioritize.”
She urged the public to shift focus from tribal politics to development-oriented leadership. “When the next election comes around, don’t ask ‘who’s our person?’ Ask who will actually work for you,” she told the crowd. She also warned that early political campaigning could stall vital development work.
Wahome also used the occasion to champion the return of the shamba system, a long-debated practice that allows communities to cultivate food crops on forest land alongside young tree seedlings. She believes it’s a win-win for environmental and food security.
“I’ve reached an agreement with the Environment CS to implement the shamba system in Laikipia. We’re just waiting on final approval from the National Conservator,” she explained. “This will increase tree survival rates and help communities put food on the table.”
Her message was clear: leadership must be about impact, not perception. And as she planted yet another seedling in the red Laikipia soil, it was hard not to see the symbolism. Alice Wahome is not just staying she’s growing roots.
