Kenya has joined other African countries in marking Africa Public Service Day (APSD) 2026, with leaders advocating for stronger public institutions, innovations and partnerships to promote access to water and sanitation across the continent.
The event, held at the Kenyatta International Convention Center (KICC) in Nairobi, was themed “Enhancing Public Sector Institutions and Empowering Multi-stakeholder Partnerships to achieve universal water and safe sanitation by 2063.”
Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programs Cabinet Secretary Geoffery Ruku stated that access to water and sanitation is central to sustainable development, public health, food production, industrial growth and social equity.
“The challenge before us is no longer simply the provision of water and sanitation services. It is ensuring these services remain reliable, affordable, sustainable, climate-resilient and accessible to every citizen,” he affirmed.
Ruku further emphasized that strong public institutions and multi-sectoral partnerships are very essential in achieving the aspirations of the African Union Agenda 2063 and also the sustainable development goals.
The CS also pointed out that the accelerated Public Service Reforms performance should be measured by results and the quality of service delivery, rather than the attendance at the workplace.
“Our focus must not be on the number of hours people spend in the office but on how effectively we meet the needs and the expectations of citizens seeking services in Public Institutions,” he explained.
The CS reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a responsive, accountable and citizen-centered public service capable of addressing emerging challenges while supporting Kenya’s Vision 2030 and the economic transformation agenda.
Public Service and Human Capital Development PS Dr. Jane Imbunya noted that the theme highlights the critical role of effective institutions and strategic partnerships in securing access to safe water and sanitation, which is a human fundamental right.
“Water is not merely a resource; it is the foundation of life, health, dignity, food security, environmental stability and economic prosperity,” Dr. Imbunya said.
She underscored the innovation that transforms water and sanitation services through the solar-powered water systems, groundwater mapping technologies, smart metering, digital payment platforms and modern water treatment solutions, resulting in improved public health and reduced prevalence of the waterborne diseases.
The PS also commended President William Ruto’s national tree-growing campaign, aimed at planting 15 billion trees by 2032, stressing that it will help in mitigating the effects of climate change.
Meanwhile, the two-day celebration will bring together government officials, development partners, private sector representatives, civil society organisations and public servants to share experiences and explore solutions for improving service delivery and advancing sustainable development across Africa.
By Sharon Njeru and Zipporah Odionyi
