The government is set to roll out a new digital application aimed at tracking the productivity and attendance of public servants by the end of October, Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has announced.
Speaking during an impromptu early-morning inspection at the Eastern Region headquarters in Embu Town, CS Ruku described the app as a “game changer” in addressing absenteeism and laxity within government offices. The platform, he said, will monitor key metrics including arrival and departure times, leave status, and real-time attendance.
“This initiative is part of a broader reform agenda to raise discipline, accountability, and efficiency in the public sector. Lateness and laxity will no longer be tolerated,” Ruku emphasized.
The CS underscored that the reform is critical for boosting service delivery, noting that inefficiency in government offices directly impacts private sector performance. “Most people in the private sector are already at work early. They know success requires hard work. Public servants must match that energy if we are serious about national transformation,” he said.
During his unannounced visit, Ruku observed stark differences in punctuality among departments. While the Huduma Centre and Immigration Office impressed him with timely reporting, the Lands office was found nearly deserted, with only one staff member and a cleaner present by 8 a.m. “We cannot condone such negligence. Public officers must take responsibility,” he warned.
The CS reiterated the need for civil servants to comply with the Human Resource Procedures and Manual of 2016, which sets standards of professionalism, ethics, and performance. He cautioned that disciplinary measures will be intensified until full compliance is achieved.
“We cannot demand respect from citizens if we are not disciplined ourselves,” he stated.
In addition, Ruku urged residents to collect unclaimed passports and national ID cards at Embu offices, noting that many remain uncollected. He also pledged more surprise inspections nationwide to ensure Kenyans receive honest, timely, and efficient services.
“This is not a one-off inspection. I will conduct more surprise checks. Kenyans deserve better from their government,” he said.
