Nairobi, Jan. 4 -- When she reported to the Lands ministry at Ardhi House in October last year, Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome walked around. Done occasionally, this style would acquaint her with what happens at the precincts of this humbling building. It disrupts the not-so-well-intentioned actors.

Indeed, her occasional easy visits to sections at the ministry headquarters would be a boon. It would demystify many things. The default practice is to be chauffeured to the basement, ushered into the lift and quickly delivered to the seat of power on 12th floor, which can be alienating.

Ms Wahome leads a big and busy ministry. She has to steer it firmly. She's responsible for the vexing housing programme, which will occupy lots of her time....