By Andrew Mbuva.
Makueni County Government has issued letters of appointment, confirmation and promotion to more than 400 county employees in a move aimed at strengthening public service delivery and boosting staff morale as the county marked the African Public Service Day.
Speaking during the celebrations, Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jnr said the county administration was committed to addressing historical workplace injustices and ensuring that employees receive recognition and rewards for their dedication and performance.
“We want to ensure that we deal with historical injustices once and for all so that everybody is in their rightful place, everybody is doing their rightful job, and everybody is appreciated for the work they do,” said Governor Mutula.
The Governor announced the introduction of a performance-based reward system, including a 13th-month salary for outstanding employees. He said the incentive would recognize exceptional performance and productivity among county workers.
“You may receive a full month’s salary as a reward for a good job. We want to move beyond the amount of work done and the time spent at work and focus on productivity so that people who work can truly feel appreciated,” he said.
Mutula noted that many employees often work diligently without receiving recognition and emphasized that the county government intends to create a culture where workers are known, appreciated and rewarded for their contributions.
Makueni County Public Service Board Chairperson Benjamin KasMBA announced several board resolutions aimed at improving staff welfare, including the automatic implementation of common cadre promotions beginning in the next financial year.
“Officers will not be required to apply for these promotions. They will be automatic,” KasaMBA said.
He thanked the county executive, the county assembly and development partners for supporting public service reforms and staff welfare initiatives. He also acknowledged financial institutions and partners that have continued to support the county’s human resource development programmes.
KasaMBA paid tribute to public servants working across health facilities, technical departments and communities, saying their efforts often go unnoticed despite their significant impact on residents’ lives.
“As we mark Public Service Week, let us commit ourselves to serving with dignity, integrity, fairness and professionalism. Let us build a public service that is responsive, ethical and results-oriented,” he said.
He cited Colossians 3:23, urging public servants to work wholeheartedly and remain committed to service delivery.
The Public Service Board chair further revealed that the county had recruited 85 new employees, six of whom are persons living with disabilities, while more than half of the new recruits are women.
Additionally, 179 officers have been confirmed into permanent and pensionable terms, 129 employees promoted, and 11 officers redesignated.
“These innovations reflect our commitment to building a professional, motivated and responsive public service capable of meeting the aspirations of the people and improving service delivery,” KasaMBA said.
Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili congratulated the newly employed and promoted officers, urging them to serve diligently and regard their positions as a privilege.
“You are fortunate to have joined the public service. Thousands of people would have wished to be in your position. Give it your best and serve the people of Makueni with dedication,” she said.
Mulili also challenged departmental heads to mentor and support the newly recruited officers as they settle into their respective stations.
She encouraged public servants to uphold professionalism and commitment, noting that the strength of any government lies in the quality and dedication of its workforce.
“This is your county and your home. Let us do what we have been assigned to do and give our best in serving the people of Makueni,” she said.
The county leadership said the reforms and staff welfare initiatives are intended to strengthen institutional capacity, enhance job security, promote career growth and improve service delivery across Makueni County.
