Kisumu: Kisumu County Governor Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o has issued a stern warning to underperforming officers in his administration, urging them to improve their performance or face removal from their positions.
According to Kenya News Agency, the governor highlighted that although there have been improvements in the performance results for the 24/25 Financial Year, certain areas still lag behind due to procurement challenges, coordination failures, and capacity limitations. Nyong’o emphasized that while systemic issues may contribute to these shortcomings, they should not be used as an excuse for poor performance by staff members.
Nyong’o pointed out that the deficiencies in some areas are not purely technical but also attitudinal. He criticized the complacency and lack of urgency among some officers, stating that this attitude leads to inadequate results, which are unacceptable in public service. He made these comments during an event in Kisumu, where he unveiled the performance results for the financial year, describing them as more than just statistics but a reflection of the work done and the lives impacted.
The event also served as an opportunity to recognize departments and individuals who have excelled, with the health sector receiving the top award, followed by the education sector as first runners-up. The Housing and Urban Planning department was recognized as the most improved. Nyong’o praised the healthcare sector for its achievements and committed to further reducing patient waiting times and improving access to essential medicines and maternal care.
The governor reiterated that public service should not be a refuge for indifference and called on those who have not met their obligations to reflect on their performance. He stressed that accountability is not meant to be punitive but corrective, and performance management is crucial for turning plans into outcomes, strengthening accountability, improving efficiency, and building public trust.
Nyong’o also highlighted the importance of public participation, which has allowed Kisumu citizens to influence the government’s priorities and budgets. He noted that performance management is gaining momentum in Kenya, supported by the Council of Governors and the Kenya Devolution Support Programme. At the national level, the development of the Draft Public Performance Management Bill 2025 demonstrates a commitment to institutionalizing this practice.
The governor assured Kisumu residents that the county is committed to delivering meaningful and measurable results, emphasizing that citizens measure success by outcomes, not just policy frameworks. Nyong’o praised the Strategy, Policy and Delivery Department for maintaining the credibility of the performance cycle and aligning it with the Integrated County Performance Management Framework.
He concluded by stating that performance appraisal has been an integral part of Kenyan public service since its introduction in 2005, aiding in the delivery of efficient services to citizens. Performance Contracting Guidelines help public institutions identify performance indicators, set targets, negotiate contracts, and conduct annual evaluations, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement in service delivery.
