Garissa takes major step towards strengthening HR capacity

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Garissa Governor Nathif Jama has reiterated that a skilled and well-structured workforce is central to effective service delivery and sustainable development.

Speaking during the launch of a capacity-building initiative under the Kenya Devolution Support Programme (KDSP II), the governor emphasized that investing in human resource systems is not just an administrative exercise but a foundation for better governance.

The initiative brought together technical directors and key stakeholders to finalize critical human resource documents required for KDSP II assessments.

These include organisational structures, staff establishment plans and performance management frameworks — tools Governor Jama described as essential for building a responsive and accountable county government.

“Our ability to deliver quality services to the people of Garissa depends on how well we structure, manage and support our workforce. Strengthening our human resource capacity will ensure we have the right people in the right positions, guided by clear policies and performance standards,” the governor said.

He noted that a robust staff establishment and well-defined HR policies would enhance transparency, improve efficiency and position the county to better address residents’ needs while accelerating development programmes.

Dr Samuel Nyagah, the National Programme Coordinator of KDSP II, reaffirmed the programme’s commitment to supporting county governments across Kenya in strengthening institutional capacity, enhancing accountability systems and accelerating the realisation of their development goals.

Dr Nyagah emphasized that robust institutions and transparent systems are the backbone of effective devolution, underscoring that strengthening institutional capacity remains central to the programme’s objectives.

“As we move forward, our focus remains clear — to empower counties with the institutional strength and accountability frameworks necessary to achieve their development aspirations and improve the lives of all Kenyans,” he said.

He explained that counties require strong public finance management systems, competent human resource structures and clear intergovernmental coordination frameworks to deliver quality services to citizens.

“Institutions that are well-structured, adequately staffed and guided by clear policies are better positioned to plan effectively, manage public resources prudently and respond to the needs of wananchi,” he said.

“Accountability and institutional strength go hand in hand. When counties adopt sound financial management practices and transparent reporting systems, they build public trust and create an enabling environment for sustainable development,” he added.

The event underscored collaboration between the county and national government.

It was attended by senior county officials and representatives from the State Department for Devolution, reflecting a shared commitment to deepening devolution and improving governance at the county level.

KDSP II is a four-year (2024–2027) World Bank-funded initiative designed to strengthen county performance in financial management, accountability and service delivery.

Its key result areas include promoting sustainable financing, strengthening expenditure controls, enhancing human resource capacity and improving citizen engagement in planning and budgeting processes.

By linking funding to measurable performance outcomes, the programme encourages continuous improvement and innovation within county administrations.