Senate staff encouraged to embrace resilience and teamwork

Senate/FILE

The Senate is set to officially begin its Fifth Session with a call for staff to embrace resilience, adaptability, and teamwork as the institution continues its service to Kenyans.

Ahead of the resumption of sittings on Tuesday, February 10, Senate staff participated in a one-day retreat designed to prepare them for the challenges and opportunities of the new legislative session.

During the engagement, the Clerk of the Senate and Secretary to the Parliamentary Service Commission, Jeremiah Nyegenye, urged officers to commit fully to their roles and remain resilient amid evolving demands.

“I encourage you to remain resilient, energised, and fully adaptable in your service to the people of Kenya,” he said, underscoring the importance of personal and professional commitment in achieving institutional goals.

Nyegenye commended staff for their work during the Fourth Session, noting that the successes of the past year, including high-profile legislative engagements, offered valuable lessons for the new session. Key events included the Legislative Summit, the Devolution Conference in Homa Bay County, and the Senate Mashinani in Busia County.

The previous session also saw the Senate process impeachment motions involving the governors of Kericho and Nyamira Counties. Staff were recognised for managing these sensitive matters with professionalism and diligence.

In addition to celebrating achievements, Nyegenye encouraged officers to reflect on challenges faced in the previous session and consider strategies for improvement.

He emphasised that every staff member plays a vital role in service delivery and that teamwork is essential to institutional success.

“Every officer plays an important role. I encourage you to reach out to your colleagues so that we build strong working relationships that deliver excellent results,” he said.

The retreat also provided a moment of reflection, with participants observing a minute of silence for colleagues who passed away during the Fourth Session. Staff who retired or exited service were acknowledged for their contributions, highlighting the Senate’s commitment to valuing its workforce.

The session featured remarks from Court of Appeal Judge Johnson Okello, formerly Director of the Legal Services Directorate.

Okello expressed gratitude for his time at the Senate and encouraged staff to continue supporting the institution and the principles of devolution.

“Parliament has been a very close family to me. It is emotional to be leaving, but I encourage you to continue standing up for devolution,” he said.

Nyegenye also urged staff to cultivate a culture of charity and community support, commending those who participated in philanthropic initiatives during the previous session and encouraging greater involvement in the Fifth Session.

On staff welfare, he highlighted wellness initiatives such as Senate and Parliamentary sports events, noting their role in enhancing teamwork and morale.

Echoing the Clerk’s sentiments, Deputy Clerks Mohamed Ali and Eunice Gichangi called on officers to remain adaptable and collaborative.

“We are back, re-energised and ready for the Fifth Session. Let us give it our best and remain adaptable to what the Session will bring,” said Gichangi.

The one-day retreat concluded with officers expressing readiness to tackle the session’s agenda and appreciation to the Parliamentary Service Commission for facilitating the engagement.