Over 19,000 documents uncollected as CS Ruku vows to streamline Huduma Centres

CS Geoffrey Ruku during his vetting process before the National Assembly Committee on Appointments on April 14, 2025. [Boniface Okendo, Standard]

CS Ruku Pledges Fast-Tracked Issuance of Good Conduct Certificates and Enhanced Services at Huduma Centres.

The Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programmes, Geoffrey Ruku, has assured citizens that the issuance of Good Conduct Certificates and other essential government services will be expedited through Huduma Centres across the country.

Speaking during an impromptu visit to Huduma Centre Thika in Kiambu County, CS Ruku said his Ministry, in collaboration with other government departments, is committed to improving efficiency in service delivery. He identified a few areas that need enhancement to ensure that Kenyans receive top-notch services without unnecessary delays.

The CS called on government officers at the sub-county level to work closely with Huduma Centres to ensure that services reach ordinary citizens more effectively.

During his visit, CS Ruku expressed concern over the high number of uncollected documents in Huduma Centres. He revealed that at Huduma Centre Thika alone, more than 10,000 driving licences, 1,500 birth certificates, and 8,000 national ID cards remain uncollected. He urged citizens to collect these vital documents without delay.

In his remarks, CS Ruku emphasised the importance of public servants upholding Chapter 232 of the Kenyan Constitution, which outlines the values and principles of public service. "It mandates high standards of professional ethics, efficient resource management, responsive and equitable service delivery, and public participation in policymaking," he said.

He further noted that the Constitution underscores equal opportunities in public service appointments, training, and career progression, irrespective of gender, ethnicity, or disability, while also emphasising accountability and the timely dissemination of accurate information to the public.

CS Ruku encouraged public servants to openly share the challenges they face with their seniors and Ministry officials to improve operational efficiency. He assured them of continued surprise visits to various service centres to ensure that service delivery remains prompt and of high quality.

"The President is a public servant number one, and he has tasked me with ensuring that citizens receive timely and efficient services. My visits should not be viewed as intimidation but as a commitment to ensuring proper service delivery," he said.

He concluded by stating that hardworking public servants will be recognised and rewarded, while those who fail to deliver will face consequences as prescribed by the law and the public service code of conduct. [Gitau Wanyoike]