Residents of Ashabito Sub-County in Mandera County are set to benefit from improved service delivery following the launch of public service operations in the newly gazetted administrative unit.
The Huduma Smart Serikalini initiative (Mandera Edition) was also unveiled by the Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programmes, marking a significant step in the National Government’s mission to deliver efficient, timely, and responsive services closer to citizens.
Speaking at the ceremony, CS Ruku reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to decentralising public services and making them accessible.
“This is just the beginning,” said the CS. “Our goal is to ensure no Kenyan is left behind. The Huduma Smart Serikalini initiative is our transformative vehicle to improve accessibility, efficiency, and accountability in service delivery that will have a timeless impact on residents across the Country.”
The launch follows the completion of the Ashabito Sub-County Headquarters and the Deputy County Commissioner’s offices, constructed under the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) through the leadership of Mandera North MP Abdullahi Bashir Sheikh.
The offices will now house all National Government departments, drastically reducing the need for residents to travel long distances for essential services.
As part of the day’s activities, CS Ruku also oversaw the distribution of 700 bags of relief food to the community, a timely emergency response from the State Department for Special Programmes under his Ministry.
He further commissioned the issuance of NG-CDF bursaries worth Sh 39 million to support needy students from Mandera North, reinforcing the Government’s broader development and social protection agenda.
The CS also announced the proposed construction of a Huduma Centre at a site in Rhamu within the County. Once operational, he said the centre will serve as a one-stop shop for public services, enhancing service reach across Ashabito and Mandera North.
“This move underscores the ministry’s ‘Fresh Approach, Timeless Impact’ philosophy, ensuring that even the most remote communities are integrated into the national service delivery framework”.
Local leaders and residents welcomed the developments with optimism, citing the operationalisation of Ashabito Sub-County as a game changer for regional development, security, and economic empowerment.
The launch also supports the realisation of Article 232 of the Constitution, which outlines values and principles of public service, including accessibility, accountability, and citizen participation.
The CS was joined at the launch by key National and County leaders, including Mandera Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif, Deputy Governor Dr. Ali Maalim Mohamud, Mps; Abdullahi Bashir Sheikh (Mandera North), Umulkheir Kassim (Mandera), Fatuma Jehow(Wajir), Aden Dawud (Wajir East), Sulekha Hulbale(Nominated), and MCAs from Mandera and other neighbouring Counties
