Kenya Showcases Key Public Service Reforms at Continental Forum

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

June 23, 2025

Kenya has emerged as a continental leader in public service reform, unveiling a bold and inclusive governance model at the 10th Africa Public Service Day celebrations in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Addressing an audience of African Ministers, AU officials, and policy leaders, Dr. Jane Kere Imbunya, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Public Service and Human Capital Development and Head of the Kenyan Delegation, in a speech read on her behalf by Mr. Bongo Wekesa, Secretary MC & DS, outlined Kenya’s transformative journey toward a more agile, resilient, and citizen-centered public sector.

Speaking under this year’s theme, “Enhancing the agility and resilience of public institutions to achieve equitable governance and rapidly address historical service delivery gaps,” Dr. Imbunya emphasized Kenya’s commitment to inclusivity.

“Our public service reforms are anchored in constitutional values, driven by innovation, and designed to tackle the deep-rooted inequalities that have historically undermined service delivery in Kenya,” she said.

She identified the country’s 2010 Constitution as the foundation of these reforms. Key provisions enshrine public participation, national values, socio-economic rights, and service delivery standards, making equity and inclusion legal obligations, not just aspirational ideals.

Dr. Imbunya highlighted several affirmative measures targeting marginalized groups and regions. These include procurement quotas through the Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO) programme and targeted funding via the Uwezo Fund, Women Enterprise Fund, Youth Enterprise Fund, and Equalization Fund.

Kenya’s Huduma Kenya programme also featured prominently in her presentation. The initiative has transformed access to government services through “one-stop-shop” centres nationwide. Its outreach arm, Huduma Mashinani, ensures even remote communities are served; a model that has earned international recognition.

Devolution has further advanced citizen-focused governance. The establishment of 47 county governments has brought decision-making and resources closer to the people, enhancing accountability and responsiveness at the grassroots level.

Looking ahead, Dr. Imbunya noted that digital transformation is the next frontier. With public servants set to begin artificial intelligence training at the Kenya School of Government next month, Kenya is investing in the tools and skills needed to build a modern, future-ready public service.

“Our experience shows that transformation is possible, not just on paper, but in the daily realities of citizens across the country,” she said. “We are proud to share our journey and offer it as a case study to fellow African nations striving to strengthen their institutions.”

Her remarks drew applause and sparked lively engagement from delegates across the continent, many of whom expressed interest in adapting elements of Kenya’s model to their own national contexts.

The address reinforced Kenya’s growing leadership in public sector innovation and its determination to build an inclusive, responsive, and results-oriented public service.