The Turkana County Public Service Board has adopted a hands-on interview process to select qualified plant operators and mechanics.
The exercise, conducted at the Ekalees center in Lodwar, featured a rigorous five-stage practical assessment that tested applicants’ ability to operate essential heavy machinery, including a tipper, grader, roller, farm tractor, and plough tractor.
“We have worked closely with the Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport. Their direct involvement is as a sign of commitment to professionalism and accountability,” said the Acting Chair of the Board, Dr Pauline Ekod Akiru.
The acting chair said that the county government had advertised 10 vacancies for plant operators and two for plant mechanics.
“We shortlisted 66 candidates for the operator positions and all of them showed up for the interview. The mechanics’ slot attracted nine applicants. There was 100% attendance,” said Dr Akiru.
The Director of Public Works Simon Napucho and the Head of Transport Charles Lochodo presided over the recruitment process.
One applicant said that “a plant mechanic is the technical hand of any machinery. They’re not just about repairs—they ensure proper maintenance and machine readiness in the field”.
By Peter Gitonga
