Principal Secretary for Public Service Prof. Jane Imbunya has emphasized the need for accurate payroll records, transparency, and accountability in public service management. She warned that weak controls can expose taxpayers' money to losses and undermine public confidence in government institutions. Prof. Imbunya stressed that effective payroll management must be supported by verified employee records, regular audits, and clear accountability systems.
Prof. Imbunya made these remarks after meeting Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) Director-General Prof. Elijah Maritim Songok in Nairobi. The discussions covered payroll integrity and preparedness for public health emergencies, including Ebola. She highlighted the importance of clean and up-to-date public payrolls, noting that every shilling must be accounted for to prevent overpayments, unauthorized salary entries, and payments to non-existent or retired employees.
The Principal Secretary drew a comparison between payroll errors and misinformation during health emergencies, noting that both require accuracy, responsible communication, and timely action. She emphasized that a single wrong payroll record can cost taxpayers, while a single false piece of information can frighten families. Prof. Imbunya also pointed out that accurate payroll records help ensure employees receive their rightful salaries on time and enable institutions to comply with tax laws, labor regulations, and financial reporting requirements.
To strengthen safeguards for public funds, the government is using initiatives such as the Human Resource Information System (HRIS-Ke), the Unified Payroll Number, and payroll audits. Prof. Imbunya noted that transparent systems make it easier for oversight bodies and auditors to identify discrepancies, investigate suspicious transactions, and hold responsible officers accountable. She also emphasized the importance of digital systems, payroll audits, and the integration of human resource records to improve verification and traceability.
Prof. Imbunya called for greater investment in workforce training, skills development, mentorship, and career progression to improve public service delivery. She urged human resource professionals to promote fair recruitment, practical skills development, and opportunities for young people to contribute to national development. The Principal Secretary emphasized that people remain the country's most valuable resource and that education must be linked to meaningful employment opportunities.
At the Institute of Human Resource Management's 30th Annual Human Resource Management Conference in Naivasha, Prof. Imbunya urged human resource professionals to discover and nurture talent. She added that education must meet opportunity and that HR professionals have a responsibility to identify and nurture talent. The Principal Secretary also called for strategic investment in workforce training during a two-day Technical Consultative Workshop for Heads of Human Resource Development at the Kenya School of Government in Embu.
Prof. Imbunya challenged public institutions to turn investment in employees into improved productivity, stronger institutional performance, and better services for citizens. She emphasized that building the person, strengthening the institution, and the nation will rise. The Principal Secretary's call for strengthening safeguards for public funds aims to promote transparency, accountability, and efficient management of public resources.
Key points
- - Prof. Jane Imbunya calls for accurate payroll records to prevent losses and undermine public confidence in government institutions. - The government is using initiatives such as HRIS-Ke, the Unified Payroll Number, and payroll audits to strengthen safeguards for public funds. - Prof. Imbunya emphasizes the importance of investing in workforce training, skills development, mentorship, and career progression to improve public service delivery.
