Mombasa: The government has taken a bold move towards digital transformation in public administration with the launch of the Kenya Regional Administration and Management Symposium in Mombasa, spearheaded by the State Department for Public Service and the Ministry of ICT and the Digital Economy. The symposium brought together stakeholders to explore the growing impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in government operations under the theme: 'Smart Governance: How Artificial Intelligence is Shaping Public Administration.'
According to Kenya News Agency, during the opening ceremony, the Deputy Head of Public Service Amos Gathecha emphasized the critical role the public service plays as the engine of government. He noted the importance of the State Department for Public Service being at the forefront of AI developments, as it is central to national progress. Gathecha highlighted the steps being taken to harness AI's potential to enhance public service delivery.
Gathecha stated, "This is not just a discussion about the future. It is about making bold decisions today to ensure a responsive, efficient, and future-ready public service." He also underscored the significance of the Directorate of Smart Governance within the Executive Office of the President, aligning government operations with the digital age. He mentioned the integration of AI in the public sector, from automating job application processes to systems that notify citizens about essential documentation.
Dr. Jane Imbunya, the Principal Secretary for Public Service and Human Capital Development, stressed the need for tech-savvy governance structures. She referred to the Kenya Kwanza government's Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which emphasizes digital infrastructure and innovation. Dr. Imbunya also acknowledged the ethical considerations of AI in public service, advocating for AI applications grounded in ethical standards.
Highlighting the success of the e-Citizen platform, Dr. Imbunya praised its role in revolutionizing government service delivery, reducing bureaucracy, enhancing transparency, and curbing corruption through minimal human interaction. She described the platform as a landmark in Kenya's journey towards smart, AI-focused governance.
Prof. George Scott, the Secretary General of the African Association for Public Administration and Management (AAPAM), emphasized the importance of collaboration across sectors to unlock the potential of a technology-driven public service.