Murkomen Declares 2 New State Lodges—Why Bungoma and Kwale Now Matter to the Presidency

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has officially gazetted two new state lodges in Kenya, expanding the list of presidential residences across the country.

According to a Gazette Notice dated Thursday, April 17, the official residences of the Bungoma and Kwale County Commissioners have now been designated as state lodges.

Why These Two Locations?

The move is seen as part of the government’s plan to ensure presidential convenience and regional presence. The Bungoma State Lodge was notably built last year in preparation for the 2023 Madaraka Day celebrations, while the Kwale residence hosted the 2024 Mashujaa Day events.

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President William Ruto hosting leaders at the Bungoma State Lodge. Photo: Courtesy

What Are State Lodges?

State lodges serve as official residences for the President during visits outside Nairobi or Mombasa. These facilities allow for meetings, rest, and security coordination while on regional duties.

With the addition of Bungoma and Kwale, the list of state lodges now includes those in Kakamega, Eldoret, Makueni, Kisumu, Kisii, Kilifi, and Nyeri.

What Next for the New Lodges?

Following their gazettement, the Bungoma and Kwale state lodges will now receive government funding for maintenance and staffing. Security teams and other state personnel will be deployed to manage the facilities as is customary with existing lodges.

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As the government strengthens its presence across counties, these newly declared state lodges mark a strategic move for decentralizing presidential operations and hosting national functions in the regions.