Nairobi, Kenya – On August 9, 2025, a brief notice in the Kenya Gazette signalled a major reshuffle at the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), the body that manages the country’s telecom spectrum and guides the rollout of 5G and mobile money regulations. Long-serving chairperson Mary Wambui Mungai was relieved of her duties and replaced by Charles Kamau Karondo, a technocrat better known for overseeing water infrastructure projects than digital networks. Wambui was quietly reassigned to lead the Athi Water Works Development Agency, trading her telecom post for responsibility over dams and pipelines.

Analysts say the move reveals the political chess that often underlies Kenya’s parastatal appointments. During her tenure, Wambui pushed for wider broadband access in rural areas and tightened consumer protections, helping steer the digital economy. Her sudden transfer has raised questions about whether performance or politics drove the change. Karondo’s arrival comes as the CA grapples with data privacy rules, industry competition and the rollout of next-generation networks. Without clear reasons from the government, speculation has flourished, with some observers seeing an attempt to consolidate control over key utilities.

The leadership swap also underscores the importance of the CA in Kenya’s digital future. The authority licenses telecom operators, allocates spectrum and ensures that platforms such as M-Pesa remain secure and accessible. As Wambui moves to a water agency at a time when Nairobi and neighbouring counties face chronic shortages, she will confront new pressures and political expectations. The months ahead will reveal whether Karondo can master the fast-evolving tech sector and whether Wambui can deliver clean water to millions while the country continues its push for universal internet access.