There was jubilation across Nyeri County as 377 county staff were confirmed to permanent and pensionable terms, marking a major milestone in the county’s labour reforms.
The workers, drawn from various county departments, received their confirmation letters during a colourful ceremony held at the Nyeri Cultural Centre on Friday, presided over by Governor Dr. Mutahi Kahiga.
Governor Kahiga said the move is part of his administration’s broader plan to motivate staff, enhance productivity, and strengthen service delivery.
“Many of our employees spent one year seeking employment, another working, and the third looking for another job because of uncertainty,” said Kahiga. “We decided to end that anxiety and give our staff permanency so they can plan their future and serve Nyeri with focus.”
The governor announced that the confirmed staff will enjoy enhanced salaries in line with the 2024 Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) circular, with pay backdated to July 2024.
He further revealed that the county has set aside Ksh 250 million to implement the upgrade, which will also help reduce the county’s wage bill by 24 per cent through the elimination of gratuity payments.
“Nyeri will be the first county to implement the new SRC salary structure approved last year. We planned ahead in our budget and are ready to pay,” he stated.
Grateful employees hailed the move, calling it a life-changing moment.
Stephen Juma, from the Department of Health Services, thanked the county for “recognizing our work and giving us permanent jobs.”
“This is a challenge for me to serve patients even better. Nyeri has always ensured salaries are timely, and this confirmation boosts our morale,” he said.
Damaris Nyakiongana from Kisii County praised Nyeri’s fair employment policy, saying job security will allow her to better manage her finances and improve service delivery.
Similarly, Collins Kosgei from Nandi County, who started as an intern in 2018, lauded the county for embracing diversity. “This proves that even those from other counties can find permanent employment here. Others should emulate Nyeri,” he said.
Governor Kahiga added that plans are underway to confirm the remaining 210 contract employees once their first terms expire.
