Hon. Peninah Malonza continues to distinguish herself through a record of consistency, impact, and unbroken dedication to community service. Her journey from pioneering humanitarian interventions to steering national ministries—positions her among the most influential leaders to emerge from Kitui County in recent decades.
Long before she occupied public office, Malonza had already etched her name in the annals of development work. In 2009, she facilitated the entry of Compassion International into Kitui County, establishing 21 centres that have since supported more than 7,000 vulnerable children. The initiative, which began by uplifting 6,400 children, continues to shape lives up to the age of 22, creating a generational ripple effect whose impact is felt across families and communities.
Her tenure as the first Deputy Governor of Kitui further solidified her reputation as a hands-on leader. Overseeing performance contracting, she played a central role in ensuring the delivery of key county projects, including road openings, ECDE classrooms, market sheds, water pans, and ward administrators’ offices. Her leadership style firm, principled, and community-oriented laid a foundation that is still referenced in governance circles today. Equally transformative was her role in establishing women’s SACCOs, which have empowered thousands economically and expanded financial inclusion at the grassroots.
At the national level, Malonza’s service as Cabinet Secretary for Tourism, Wildlife and Heritage came at a pivotal moment following the COVID-19 crisis. Under her stewardship, international tourist arrivals grew from 870,000 to 1.4 million, while domestic tourism surged to 4.2 million from 2.4 million. She revived cultural festivals, strengthened wildlife conservation during a historic drought, managed compensation for human–wildlife conflict, guided communities through devastating floods, and enhanced cooperation within the East African Community. Her leadership earned her continental recognition, including the Tourism Woman of the Year Africa award and the distinction of becoming the first female president of LATF Africa.
Despite her exit from Cabinet, Malonza’s roots remained firmly planted in community service. She has continued to distribute water tanks, support women’s groups, donate poultry to households, and provide tools for persons living with disabilities initiatives that have reinforced her identity as a servant leader whose mission transcends political office.
As Kitui County looks toward the 2027 elections, voices across the region are calling for a leader who embodies integrity, competence, and visionary stewardship. For many, Hon. Peninah Malonza represents that future a leader prepared not only to dream, but to deliver.
In the unfolding political landscape, her name stands out not for the positions she has held, but for the lasting impact of her work. And as the county weighs its options, one message resonates widely: Kitui is ready for a performer. A visionary. A leader of unquestionable character.
Hon. Peninah Malonza is increasingly being seen as that leaderthe woman poised to shape Kitui’s next chapter as its Governor in 2027.
