The Ministry of Public Service has launched a workplace policy on HIV/AIDS and other syndemic diseases aimed at enhancing the mental wellness of public servants.
The policy seeks to set standards for workplace counselling and wellness services in the public service, establish a coordinated framework for such programs, and operationalise counselling and wellness services across ministries.
Speaking during the launch, Principal Secretary for Public Service and Human Capital Development, Dr. Jane Kere Imbunya, underscored the importance of supporting public officers.
“Imagine a public service where every officer steps into a workplace feeling supported, not sidelined by health worries. Doesn't that sound like the Kenya we are building together?” she said.
She added that the ministry, under the stewardship of Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku and in partnership with the National Syndemic Disease Control Council, had reviewed the 2017 Public Sector Workplace Policy on HIV and AIDS, culminating in the revised version unveiled.
Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga, emphasised the importance of inter-ministerial collaboration in improving the well-being of public servants.
“You can't do it in isolation. Government must work cohesively. That is why we are implementing reforms in universal health coverage, social transformation, and mindset change to position health as a pillar of economic development,” he said.
He highlighted ongoing efforts in human capital and health workforce development, adding that digitization of the healthcare system is improving integration across public, private, and faith-based facilities.
Dr. Oluga reiterated that strong partnerships between state departments will strengthen the well-being of public servants and, in turn, boost productivity.
