Koskei cracks the whip: State corporations put on strict results notice for 2026

Head of Public Service Felix Koskei./HANSDOUT

Head of Public Service Felix Koskei has unveiled an ambitious performance roadmap for State corporations, signalling a shift from structural reforms to strict results-based management in 2026.

Speaking during a high-level virtual meeting with Principal Secretaries, Board Chairpersons, CEOs, and Corporation Secretaries, Koskei said the government is entering a new phase that demands discipline, precision, and measurable outcomes across all State agencies.

The meeting, he noted, came after the conclusion of a revitalisation phase that focused on restoring order, discipline, and clarity within State corporations.

“Following the revitalisation phase, we have strengthened oversight, clarified accountability frameworks, sharpened financial stewardship, enhanced institutional coherence, and shifted organisational culture from informal practices to structured systems and documented procedures,” Koskei said.

Head of Public Service Felix Koskei./HANSDOUT

With the structural clean-up largely complete, Koskei said the focus now shifts to disciplined performance and measurable results.

“The focus now turns to time-bound service delivery, measurable impact, prudent financial management, elimination of wastage, zero tolerance of corruption, and prompt corrective action,” he stated.

Koskei emphasised that 2026 will be defined by strict adherence to performance targets and responsible use of public resources.

He warned that inefficiency, delayed implementation, and weak internal controls will not be tolerated.

Each institution, he said, must embed efficiency within its operational processes, uphold clear lines of responsibility, and deliver tangible value to citizens.

“Every State corporation exists to serve the public. That service must be timely, accountable, and impactful,” he added.

Koskei underscored the importance of measurable outcomes, directing agencies to move beyond routine reporting and instead demonstrate real transformation through data-backed results.

He said boards and management teams will be expected to take personal responsibility for institutional performance.

He further stressed prudent financial management, noting that State corporations must operate within approved budgets, eliminate wasteful expenditure, and ensure that every shilling is traceable and justified.

On integrity, Koskei reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption, calling for stronger internal controls and swift corrective action wherever irregularities are detected.

The Head of Public Service also called for enhanced institutional coherence, urging agencies to align their mandates with broader government policy objectives and avoid duplication of roles.

He made it clear that performance will no longer be measured by activity but by outcomes.

“Our citizens expect results. That expectation must shape how we plan, implement, and account for our work,” he said.

The renewed push signals a decisive transition from reform to delivery, placing State corporations at the centre of accountable and impact-driven public service.