Launch of the Huduma Serikali Initiative
Joyous celebrations marked a major milestone for residents of Ashabito Sub-County in Mandera North, Mandera County as the Government officially launched public service operations in the newly gazetted administrative unit. The event, graced by Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes, Geoffrey Ruku, also unveiled the Huduma Smart Serikalini initiative (Mandera Edition) a bold step in the National Government’s mission, through the Ministry, to bring efficient, timely, and responsive services closer to citizens.
Speaking at the vibrant ceremony, CS Ruku reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to decentralizing public services and making them accessible. “This is just the beginning,” said the CS. “Our goal is to ensure no Kenyan is left behind. The Huduma Smart Serikalini initiative is our transformative vehicle to improve accessibility, efficiency, and accountability in service delivery that will have a timeless impact to residents across the Country.”
The launch follows the completion of the Ashabito Sub-County Headquarters and the Deputy County Commissioner’s offices, constructed under the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) through the leadership of Mandera North MP Abdullahi Bashir Sheikh. These offices will now house all National Government departments, drastically reducing the need for residents to travel long distances for essential services.
As part of the day's activities, CS Ruku also oversaw the distribution of 700 bags, equivalence to 35 tonnes of relief food to the community, a timely emergency response from the State Department for Special Programmes under his Ministry. He further commissioned the issuance of NG-CDF bursaries worth Sh 39 million to support needy students from Mandera North, reinforcing the Government’s broader development and social protection agenda.
In a strategic planning session with Government officials, CS Ruku announced the proposed construction of a Huduma Centre at a site in Rhamu within the County. Once operational, the centre will serve as a one-stop shop for public services, enhancing service reach across Ashabito and Mandera North in general. "This move underscores the ministry’s 'Fresh Approach, Timeless Impact' philosophy, ensuring that even the most remote communities are integrated into the national service delivery framework", the CS said.
Local leaders and residents welcomed the developments with optimism, citing the operationalization of Ashabito Sub-County as a game changer for regional development, security, and economic empowerment. The launch also supports the realization of Article 232 of the Constitution, which outlines values and principles of public service, including accessibility, accountability, and citizen participation.
The CS was joined at the launch by key National and County leaders including Mandera Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif, Deputy Governor Dr. Ali Maalim Mohamud, Mps; Abdullahi Bashir Sheikh (Mandera North), Umulkheir Kassim (Mandera), Fatuma Jehow(Wajir), Aden Dawud (Wajir East), Sulekha Hulbale(Nominated), and MCAs from Mandera and other neighbouring Counties. Several MCAs from Mandera and neighboring counties were also in attendance.
CS Ruku reiterated that the operationalization of Ashabito Sub-County and the continued rollout of Huduma Smart Serikalini initiative highlight the Government’s sustained efforts through the Ministry to bring services closer to the people, driving transformation from the grassroots and reinforcing inclusive development.