Kenya shines at the 10th Continental Africa Public Service Day celebrations in Ethiopia

The country clinched three major awards during the gala dinner held on Monday, 23rd June 2025—a proud moment for the Kenyan delegation and a testament to the nation’s growing reputation for innovation and excellence in public service delivery.

This year’s APSD celebrations were held under the theme "Enhancing the Agility and Resilience of Public Institutions to Achieve Equitable Governance and Rapidly Address Historical Service Delivery Gaps." The biennial event brought together government institutions and innovators from across Africa to showcase groundbreaking ideas aimed at transforming public service and improving the lives of citizens.

Kenya’s performance stood out in a highly competitive field, earning accolades in three categories. Tharaka University received the award for Best Innovation in Service Delivery for its Poultry Melovax project, taking first place and affirming the country's capacity for homegrown scientific solutions.

The Kenya Forestry Research Institute’s Jaza Miti Initiative was recognized as the first runner-up in the Most Accountable and Transparent Organization category, highlighting the growing emphasis on environmental stewardship and public trust.

Meanwhile, Team Kenya’s vibrant and well-curated exhibition stand was named second runner-up in the Best Pavilion category—a nod to the country’s dynamic and engaging presence at the event.

Beyond the award winners, several other Kenyan institutions showcased exemplary innovations that captured the attention of delegates and stakeholders.

These included the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration, which presented its Automated Reporting Management Information System (ARMIS), and Baringo National Polytechnic, which demonstrated a cost-effective water recycling solution.

Huduma Kenya introduced its Universal Agent Model, while the Kenya Ports Authority impressed attendees with its KARGOPAY digital cargo payment system. Kisiwa National Polytechnic also drew interest with its innovative five-functional-bed hospital unit designed for healthcare institutions.

Throughout the event, participants engaged in exhibitions, symposiums, and panel discussions addressing the challenges and opportunities facing public institutions in Africa. It was a space not only for recognition but also for learning, networking, and cross-country collaboration in building resilient and people-driven service models.

Speaking during the award ceremony, Dr. Jane Kere Imbunya, Principal Secretary for Public Service and Human Capital Development and head of Kenya’s delegation, praised the country's achievements. She congratulated the institutions that brought home awards and noted that the recognition reaffirmed Kenya’s leadership in public service transformation.

Dr. Imbunya emphasized the importance of scaling up these innovations and embedding them into government systems to ensure they deliver meaningful impact to ordinary citizens.

“The recognition we’ve received is not just about winning,” she said. “It’s about reaffirming Kenya’s resolve to innovate, adapt, and deliver services that truly respond to the needs of our citizens.”

As the celebrations come to a close, Team Kenya returns home with both pride and purpose, carrying lessons and inspiration to further enhance public service delivery for the benefit of all Kenyans.