Vihiga: Kennedy Akala Aluda was sworn in as the chairperson of the Vihiga County Public Service Board alongside other board members, committing to uphold integrity, transparency, and accountability. The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Office of Governor Dr. Wilber Ottichilo, who was also present.
According to Kenya News Agency, Vihiga Principal Magistrate Jacqueline Agonda administered the oath of office to Akala and other elected board members, including Ibrahim Kugo, Dr. Elizabeth Gloria, Anindo Wanyama, and Jairus Opati Ounza. During the event, Mr. Akala recognized the efforts of the preceding board, stating that their work would form the foundation for the new board’s service. He expressed gratitude to the Governor for the nomination, the Vihiga County Assembly for approval, and the selection panel for endorsing his name for the role.
Mr. Akala acknowledged the expectations and challenges ahead, vowing to adhere to national values and principles of governance and public service standards. He emph
asized his commitment to fostering transparency, fairness, and accountability in recruitment, promotion, and public officer management processes, guided by merit, inclusivity, and the rule of law.
He pledged to build a responsive, effective, and efficient public service that meets the needs and aspirations of Vihiga County. He emphasized the importance of teamwork, collaboration, and mutual respect among board members, county leadership, and stakeholders in achieving success. Akala assured Vihiga County residents of improved service delivery and professionalism under his leadership.
Mr. Akala highlighted his intention to prioritize streamlined human resource systems and leverage technology for enhancing appointments, promotions, and performance tracking. He aims to develop policies that advance youth employment and gender equity in staff hiring, expressing eagerness to contribute his experience to the Vihiga County Public Service Board.
Dr. Nicholas Mwandihi, the County Executive Committee Member for Publi
c Service and Administration, urged the new board to utilize the Constitution of Kenya to build a better workforce at the county. He encouraged the creation of a conducive work environment to maximize workers’ potential and wished the new members success, advising collaboration with county leadership for effective performance.
Outgoing Chairperson Ambassador Franklin Esipila highlighted areas for the incoming board to focus on, including worker recruitment, corruption issues, payroll management, worker discipline, staff promotion, and certification. He acknowledged the efforts of the previous board, thanking Governor Ottichilo and the Vihiga County Assembly, led by Speaker Christopher Omulele, for their support during his tenure.
