Kenya, under Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi, is committed to the African Charter on Values and Principles of Public Service and Administration. Emphasizing collective action, the government aims to foster a public service characterized by transparency and accountability. The implementation of the State Parties Assessment Tool is critical in standardizing monitoring and enhancing ethical governance within public service institutions.
Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Public Service and Human Capital Development, Justin Muturi, has emphasized the nation’s commitment to the principles outlined in the African Charter on Values and Principles of Public Service and Administration. During a closing ceremony at a capacity-building workshop held at the Kenya School of Government in Mombasa, he highlighted the government’s intention to develop a public service characterized by excellence, trust, and equity, striving to set a standard for Africa.
Mr. Muturi stated that cooperation, commitment, and shared values are essential for fostering a transparent, accountable, and effective public service. He noted that the charter’s objectives align closely with Article 232 of the Kenyan constitution, aiming to ensure service delivery transparency through the harmonization of policies across member states.
He mentioned that several countries, including Namibia, Tanzania, and South Africa, are already implementing the State Parties Assessment Tool (SPAT). According to him, it is vital for Kenya to adopt and integrate this tool into its reporting processes, fostering standardized monitoring and fostering comparative learning to enhance public service frameworks.
The African Charter, adopted during the 16th Ordinary Session of the African Union in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, has been effective since July 23, 2016. This charter is significant as it is the first legally binding instrument for regional public service, aiming to improve public service delivery, combat corruption, and strengthen developmental capabilities in Africa.
Mr. Muturi urged participants to reflect on the charter’s principles, emphasizing that merely piloting and adopting these values is insufficient; they must be integrated into daily operations within public service institutions. He believes that Kenya has the potential to shape its future by adhering to the charter’s tenets, reinforcing its commitment to excellence, trust, and equity.
Amos Gathecha, the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Public Service, indicated that the three-day workshop was instrumental in providing a framework for assessing adherence to key public service values. He underscored the importance of embracing the tool to enhance transparency and accountability.
Gathecha urged participants to actively engage with the SPAT, which comprises 350 evaluative items, to ensure full compliance and promote an ethical and effective public service ahead.
In summary, Kenya is poised to advance its public service framework by firmly committing to the African Charter on Values and Principles of Public Service and Administration. Through the adoption of the State Parties Assessment Tool, the nation aims to enhance transparency, cooperation, and ethical governance. By embedding these principles into daily practices, Kenya seeks to achieve excellence in public service, reinforcing its role as a leader on the continent.
Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke
