The 6th Annual General Assembly and Conference of the African Association of Public Service Commissions (AAPSCOM) kicks off at Safari Park Hotel, Nairobi

Hon. Justin B. N. Muturi, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Public Service and Human Capital Development, officially opened the 6th Annual General Assembly and Conference of the African Association of Public Service Commissions (AAPSCOMs) in Nairobi. The highly anticipated conference, which was initially scheduled for 2020 but delayed due to unforeseen challenges, has brought together public service leaders and experts from across Africa to address key issues affecting public service delivery on the continent.

Hon. Muturi, in his opening remarks, expressed his excitement at the opportunity to welcome delegates to Kenya, a country known for its resilience and capacity to overcome challenges. "We are gathered here today to celebrate the resilience of Kenya and the importance of this conference in shaping the future of public service in Africa," he said.

He recognized the hard work of the AAPSCOMs Secretariat, the Public Service Commission of Kenya, and all involved stakeholders who made the event possible. Muturi emphasized the significance of the conference in bringing together public service professionals from across the continent to foster collaboration, share best practices, and drive innovation in public service delivery.

Addressing the theme of the conference, "Driving Public Service Delivery through Innovation and Technology," the Cabinet Secretary stressed the crucial role technology plays in enhancing government services. He noted that leveraging the Fourth Industrial Revolution—characterized by advancements in automation, artificial intelligence, and information technology—could revolutionize public service delivery in Africa. "Technology is a game-changer in delivering timely, efficient, and citizen-centric public services. We must use it to bridge the gaps in service delivery and ensure our governments are accessible, efficient, and responsive," Muturi remarked.

Hon. Muturi further called for the continued strengthening of the African Association of Public Service Commissions, urging delegates to work together to ensure that the public service sector remains at the heart of national development. "Public service is essential to the delivery of infrastructure, health, education, security, and other critical services that drive sustainable development. We must continue to prioritize innovation and technology to meet the evolving needs of our citizens," he stated.

The opening ceremony was attended by key figures from across Africa, including Dr. Choolwe Beyani, President of AAPSCOMs, and other regional leaders who emphasized the need for increased collaboration and knowledge-sharing among African public service commissions.

Delegates are now set to engage in a series of sessions, exploring the evolving role of public services in driving innovation and improving service delivery across the continent. The conference will also provide a platform for countries to share successful strategies and challenges faced in their pursuit of effective and efficient public services.

In his closing remarks, Muturi invited all international delegates to explore Kenya’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, highlighting Nairobi’s unique status as the only city in the world with a national park, and urging them to experience the best of Kenyan cuisine and hospitality.

The event marks a significant moment in the continued efforts to strengthen public service across Africa, with a renewed focus on technology, innovation, and intergovernmental collaboration.