Sixty-seven newly recruited officers in the state department of broadcasting and telecommunications on Tuesday reported to the Ministry of Information, Communication and the Digital Economy headquarters at Telposta Towers to pick their appointment letters.
The officers who include information officers, photojournalists and videographers are among the 100 who underwent a highly competitive recruitment exercise in August this year, with 33 others absorbed in the Directorate of Public Communications.
Addressing the officers today at Telposta Towers, the Secretary, Information and Broadcasting, Temesi Mukani, congratulated the officers and welcomed them into the service, adding that their entry will boost service delivery in the information and communications sector.
Temesi reiterated that as government officers, they are expected to help tell the country’s development story.
“As information officers and photojournalists, your main role is to disseminate news and information that will create awareness about government development programmes and projects intended for the benefit of the general public,” said Temesi.
He pointed out that since a majority will be deployed to the Directorate of Information field offices, he urged them to plug into the media hubs domiciled in the counties, adding that the Ministry of ICT and the digital economy has the responsibility of keeping the journalism profession alive in the country.
“While at the counties, join press clubs and write feature stories that have an impact in the society at large. Kenya News Agency is a news wire service. As you write, let your content meet the threshold of local and global perspective,” explained Temesi.
At the same time, Temesi cautioned the officers to watch their online presence as the country heads towards the electioneering season, adding that they should strive to avoid partisan political orientation.
“As public servants, we serve in perpetuity; we don’t take political sides as stipulated in the code of conduct for public servants,” stated Temesi.
He also encouraged the officers to take advantage of the Civil Servants Housing Scheme, which offers a good opportunity to buy a house or land to build. He also advised them not to run to banks for loans to buy land or take a mortgage.
“Among the lucrative perks you will enjoy after employment as a civil servant include an opportunity to own a home or buy a car for your family at very favourable rates. Please take advantage of these opportunities and acquire assets wherever you will be based. This is what will make you find fulfilment in your career.”
Temesi also advised the officers to look out for opportunities to grow their career through additional studies and training by taking up scholarships offered through partnerships and bilateral agreements.
“Work hard and diligently in your assignments, and I assure you, your effort will be recognised and rewarded by the employer. Government recognises performance; avoid the gravy train mentality that lures you to embrace your comfort zone,” Temesi.
Speaking during the same forum, Director of Human Resources and Management Nancy Wachira appraised the officers about the Oath of Secrecy that binds them not to adversely expose their employer through the information they handle by virtue of their employment.
The HRM Director further advised the new officers to observe the official dress code and ensure they put on attire that lends decorum to their status.
The officers have joined the state department at an opportune time, and their entry is a major boost to service delivery since a majority of the serving officers are due for retirement, while a sizeable number have already exited service, leaving a gap in technical capacity.
By Kizito Maruti and Bethsheba Abuya
