Introduction: A Defining Role

From December 2015 to May 2020, I served as the Principal Secretary for the State Department of Public Service and Youth Affairs, a role that provided me with a unique platform to influence and manage public service and youth affairs in Kenya. This period was marked by transformative changes and substantial progress, particularly in the face of various challenges, including those affecting the National Youth Service (NYS).

Related: Who is Lillian Mbogo?

Transforming the National Youth Service

A significant part of my tenure was devoted to revamping the National Youth Service (NYS), an institution that was grappling with numerous challenges. One of my key achievements was the streamlining of NYS’s financial and management operations. This involved partnering with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) between 2016 and 2018 to enhance program management and financial functions.

Key reforms included

• Cost Reduction Initiatives: We implemented single-sourcing for all milk supplies from KCC and appointed the National Oil Company to manage fuel cards for NYS vehicles. We also negotiated with the Kenya Meat Commission for meat supplies and built internal capacity for uniform stitching, which drastically reduced costs previously incurred from external service providers.
• Revamping the NYS Garment Factory: I spearheaded the re-establishment of the defunct NYS Garment Factory in Ruaraka. Originally a major supplier of uniforms for Kenya’s disciplined services, the factory had been idle for years. Under my leadership, it was revived, equipped, and expanded to handle significant production volumes, restoring its role as a key player in uniform production.
• Infrastructure Development: We oversaw the reconstruction of the NYS Gilgil Training College, which had been stalled for 30 years. The newly completed “Uhuru Barracks” now accommodates an additional 6,000 recruits, improving living conditions and training facilities.

These efforts not only addressed historical pending bills but also enhanced the overall efficiency and capability of NYS.

Related: My Interest For The Embu Senatorial Seat in 2022

Public Service Management: Innovation and Efficiency

In addition to my work with NYS, my role in public service management was marked by several achievements:
Integrated Payroll and Personnel Database (IPPD) System: I championed the operationalization of the IPPD system, which was rolled out to all 47 counties. This system has been pivotal in streamlining payroll management and personnel tracking across the national and devolved governments.

Capacity Development: We undertook the Capacity Assessment and Rationalization of Public Service, with ongoing implementation aimed at improving service delivery and efficiency. This included seconding national government staff to support county management and establishing robust payroll systems across all counties.
Medical Insurance Scheme: I oversaw the expansion of the Civil Servants Comprehensive Medical Insurance Scheme, covering over 246,000 officers through the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF). Additionally, salary structures were reviewed, resulting in significant increases of between 16% and 30% for civil servants.

Youth Empowerment and Development

My tenure also saw considerable progress in youth empowerment:

• Kenya Youth Employment and Opportunities Project (KYEOP): I successfully designed and negotiated for USD 150 million in funding from the World Bank for KYEOP. This project, implemented in collaboration with various agencies, aims to enhance youth employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.
• Youth Enterprise Development Fund (YEDF): I oversaw the restructuring of YEDF, which lent over Ksh. 2 billion to approximately 200,000 young people, supporting their entrepreneurial ventures and business development.
• National Youth Council and Policy Review: We commenced a review of the National Youth Policy and developed the National Youth Empowerment Strategy. This strategic blueprint was designed to guide the implementation of policies and programs aimed at empowering Kenya’s youth.

Legacy and Impact

During my tenure, the State Department for Public Service and Youth made significant strides in both public service management and youth development. Our efforts in revamping NYS, enhancing public service systems, and empowering youth have had a lasting impact on the efficiency of government operations and the prospects for young Kenyans.

The Auditor General’s report for FY 2016/2017 highlighted the effective management of public finances and lawful application of public money, underscoring the success of our initiatives.

As I reflect on my time as Principal Secretary, I am proud of the progress we made and the challenges we overcame. The transformative changes implemented during my tenure continue to influence public service and youth affairs in Kenya, setting a foundation for future advancements.