Kitui Governor H.E. Dr. Julius M. Malombe, EGH, on Tuesday officially commissioned the Kitui County Public Service Board (KCPSB) new office complex, marking a major milestone in the strengthening of public administration and institutional governance in the county. The ceremony was held in Kitui and attended by senior county leadership, members of the county assembly, and public service officials.
The event brought together the Deputy Governor, Hon. Wambua Kanani, Speaker of the County Assembly Hon. Kevin Kinengo, Members of the County Assembly, County Executive Committee Members, Chief Officers, the KCPSB Chairperson and Board Members, among other distinguished guests. The commissioning underscored the county’s commitment to professionalism, accountability, and improved service delivery.
Speaking during the ceremony, Governor Malombe emphasized that the new complex represents more than physical infrastructure, describing it as a symbol of dedication to integrity, efficiency, and effective management of human resources. He noted that a strong public service remains the backbone of development and a key driver of people-centered governance.
The Governor highlighted the constitutional foundation of County Public Service Boards, citing Article 235 of the Constitution of Kenya and Section 57 of the County Governments Act, 2012. He reiterated that the KCPSB plays a critical role in safeguarding merit, fairness, and independence in the recruitment and management of county staff.
Governor Malombe reflected on the historical evolution of the KCPSB since the advent of devolution in 2013, noting that the Board was instrumental in building the county public service from the ground up. As the pioneer governor, he recalled overseeing the establishment of the first board through a transparent and legally compliant process.
He praised the Board for its achievements, including the recruitment and deployment of a competent workforce, promotion of merit-based appointments, strengthening of discipline and ethical standards, and automation of recruitment processes. The Governor revealed that the KCPSB currently oversees 5,434 staff across the county, with thousands having benefited from promotions and re-designations since 2022.
Governor Malombe acknowledged challenges faced by the Board over the years, including limited office space and increasing workload demands. He noted that these challenges informed the decision to invest in a modern office complex to enhance efficiency, staff morale, and service turnaround time.
The newly commissioned building features adequate office space, modern meeting rooms, secure records management facilities, and improved public access. According to the Governor, the facility will enhance coordination between the Board, county departments, and stakeholders while projecting a dignified image befitting a constitutional institution.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment, Governor Malombe assured the Board of continued support, respect for its independence, and sustained investment in capacity building and institutional strengthening. He emphasized that effective public institutions are essential for sustainable development and social equity.
In his concluding remarks, the Governor commended the KCPSB leadership, county assembly, and all stakeholders who contributed to the realization of the project. He then officially commissioned the Kitui County Public Service Board office complex for the service of the people of Kitui County, calling on all public servants to uphold constitutional values and serve citizens with integrity and dedication.
Pictorial
