Deputy Head of the Public Service (DHOPS), Amos Gathecha, has commended Communication and Information Officers for their efforts in amplifying government messaging and enhancing the visibility of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), despite the evolving nature of communication styles and the shift away from traditional practices.
Speaking during a meeting with Government Spokesperson Dr. Isaac Mwaura at Harambee House, Mr. Gathecha underscored the critical role these officers play in shaping public understanding of government programmes and policies.
“Our communication officers are the bridge between government and the people. Their dedication ensures that citizens are well informed about the services, programmes and opportunities available to them,” said Mr. Gathecha.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting these officers through capacity building, noting that continuous training would ensure they remain effective in responding to the demands of a rapidly transforming communication environment.
The DHOPS urged training institutions to design courses that equip officers with modern communication skills to match the dynamic digital landscape.
“We must continuously empower our communication teams with new skills so that government information remains clear, accessible and responsive to the needs of citizens,” he emphasized.
Communication and Information Officers, deployed across MDAs, are mandated to communicate government policies, programmes and services to citizens, while providing feedback to policymakers. Their sector supports transparency, accountability, and citizen awareness.
Dr. Mwaura outlined the functions of his office since its establishment, emphasizing its role in coordinating government communication, issuing official statements, and clarifying policy matters on behalf of the Government.
He explained that while MDAs retain the mandate to communicate programmes and initiatives within their respective sectors, the Office of the Government Spokesperson ensures overall coherence, alignment and consistency in how government priorities are presented to the public.
He noted that new approaches such as the use of Gava quotes, reels, TikToks, and town halls have enhanced citizen engagement, particularly among the youth and digital-first audiences.
Beyond these, he emphasized that the government is also leveraging live streaming of key events, interactive Twitter/X Spaces, podcasts, infographics, blogs, newsletters, and media partnerships to ensure wide and inclusive reach.
These platforms, he said, provide opportunities for real-time interaction, storytelling, and simplified policy communication, enabling citizens to not only access accurate information but also participate in discussions on national priorities.
At the same time, Mwaura restated the government’s continued investment in traditional communication channels such as radio programmes, community barazas, vernacular stations, print publications, and direct community outreach to ensure inclusivity.
These channels, he explained, remain vital in reaching audiences in rural areas and those with limited access to digital platforms, thereby reinforcing the government’s commitment to leave no one behind in the flow of public information.
Mwaura further disclosed that a comprehensive Government Communication Strategy is under development to strengthen information flow and public participation.
He added that the Kenya School of Government (KSG) and the Kenya Film School will collaborate in rolling out training programmes tailored for communication and information officers.
By Jacqueline Adyang
