Machakos County has geared her efforts to strengthen her public service systems through training of staff to enhance governance, accountability, and overall quality service delivery.
In the second cohort of the training programme, 400 staff members completed a week-long programme at a Mombasa hotel. The training is part of a broader strategy by the county government to build a more professional, efficient, and responsive workforce capable of meeting the growing needs of residents.
The training focused on critical areas such as governance structures, financial management at both institutional and personal levels, leadership, ethics, and performance improvement.
Speaking during the closing session, Governor Wavinya Ndeti said the initiative was informed by an internal assessment that identified gaps affecting service delivery. She noted that strengthening human capital remains central to transforming the county’s public service.
“The success of any government depends largely on the capacity and integrity of its workforce. By investing in our staff, we are laying a firm foundation for efficient service delivery, prudent use of public resources, and increased public trust,” she said.
The governor emphasised that the programme is not only aimed at improving technical competencies but also at nurturing a culture of accountability, transparency, and professionalism across all departments.
“A well-trained workforce would ensure that Machakos residents receive timely, equitable, and high-quality services,” she stated.
Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi reiterated the county administration’s commitment to staff welfare and continuous professional development. He urged them to translate the knowledge acquired into tangible improvements in their day-to-day responsibilities.
“This training should be reflected in how we serve our people through integrity, diligence, and a renewed commitment to excellence. The ultimate beneficiary of this investment is the citizen,” he said.
County Secretary and Head of Public Service, Dr. Muya Ndambuki, said that the second cohort brings the total number of trained staff under the programme to 800. Overall, more than 4,000 county employees have benefited from similar training efforts since 2024.
He expressed confidence that the programme is on track to reach all county employees within the next year, positioning Machakos as a model for institutional strengthening and human resource development among devolved units.
“The progress we are making is encouraging. Our goal is to ensure that every staff member is equipped with the skills, knowledge, and ethical grounding necessary to deliver on the county’s mandate effectively,” Dr. Ndambuki said.
Participants in the training described the programme as transformative, citing both professional and personal benefits. Revenue officer Martha Kisisyo said the sessions on financial management and accountability would improve revenue collection processes and reduce inefficiencies.
“We have gained practical skills that will help us manage public funds more responsibly and improve compliance among taxpayers,” she said.
ECDE teacher Elizabeth Mualuko noted that the training also addressed personal financial management, which she said is often overlooked but essential for public officers.
“When staff are financially disciplined at a personal level, it reflects in how they handle public resources. This training has empowered us in both aspects,” she said.
By Sadik Hassan
