Newly appointed public officers from the Directorate of Government Clearing Services have been urged to uphold integrity, accountability and professionalism, while prioritising the interests of Kenyans in the discharge of their duties.

Shipping and Maritime Affairs PS Aden Abdi Millah said public service was a responsibility that required discipline, commitment and adherence to the law.

Speaking during an induction programme for the newly appointed 40 supply chain officers, clerical officers, assistant office administrators, economists, finance officers, and shipping and maritime officers, as well as clearing and forwarding officers at a Machakos hotel, Millah challenged the officers to honour the public’s trust by demonstrating honesty, fairness, transparency, and impartiality.

“Public service is a privilege and a calling. You have a responsibility to serve the people of Kenya with integrity, fairness and accountability,” he said.

Millah said the induction of the officers was intended to familiarise them with the department’s mandate, operational structures, policies and performance expectations to ensure effective service delivery.

He urged them to understand relevant laws, government policies and departmental procedures, noting that clear reporting lines and defined responsibilities were essential for efficiency and accountability.

The PS also called on the officers to safeguard public resources, protect confidential government information and observe discipline, punctuality and professionalism in their daily work.

He cautioned the public officers against careless use of social media, instead urging them to follow official communication protocols and obtain the necessary authorisation before issuing statements on behalf of the department.

Millah further encouraged the officers to embrace teamwork, innovation and digitisation while pursuing continuous learning and professional development to prepare for greater responsibilities.

“Effective execution of the department’s mandate depends on officers who understand their responsibilities and remain committed to delivering services in the public interest,” he said.

The State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs plays a key role in advancing Kenya’s maritime interests, including maritime security, trade facilitation and blue economy development.

Also addressing the induction was Alice W. Maina, Director of Human Resource Management and Development, deployed under the State Department for Public Service, who emphasised the importance of ethical conduct, compliance with public service regulations and career development.

Maina urged the officers to understand the obligations attached to their positions and maintain professional relationships with colleagues and supervisors while observing established communication channels and institutional procedures.

“Public officers must understand that the positions they hold come with responsibilities and obligations. How you conduct yourself at work, how you treat members of the public and how you handle your assignments all contribute to the image of the public service,” she said.

She encouraged the officers to seek mentorship, learn from experienced colleagues and remain open to new ideas, noting that a strong work ethic and willingness to learn were essential for professional growth and improved service delivery.

The induction programme sought to equip the officers with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the public service, understand their departmental responsibilities and meet performance targets.

It also focused on promoting ethical leadership, protecting public resources and ensuring timely, efficient and accessible services in line with the Constitution, public service values and relevant laws.

By Alex Mulili and Anne Kangero