𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐭: 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐩𝐬 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐄𝐫𝐚

In a strategic and unprecedented move that signals a fresh chapter for the State Department for Devolution (SDD), Principal Secretary Michael Loikenu Lenasalon convened the first-ever full staff meeting.

Hosted at the Kenya School of Government, Lower Kabete, the meeting brought together the entire SDD team for a session like no other. This wasn’t just about gathering staff, it was about listening, aligning and reimagining how we work together to deliver transformative service to the Kenyan people.

At the heart of the engagement was a bold and interactive segment dubbed “Sema na PS”, a platform that gave staff an open forum to share insights, raise concerns and connect directly with PS Lenasalon. It was transparency in action and a demonstration of the PS’s commitment to servant leadership.

In his inspiring address, PS Lenasalon commended the staff for their dedication and sacrificial efforts in steering the Devolution agenda and emphasized a clear vision to position SDD as a global benchmark in devolution management.

During the staff meeting, PS Michael Lenasalon underscored the critical importance of workplace culture, emphasizing that “culture eats strategy for breakfast” because no matter how sound the strategy, its execution hinges on the environment in which people work.

He called for a complete cultural reset within the State Department, rooted in respect for all, professionalism and personal accountability. The PS stressed that a positive organizational culture is not optional but essential as it is the true driver of motivation, innovation and team unity. He encouraged staff to uphold integrity in action, embrace collaboration, support creative thinking, and commit to continuous learning, reminding them to allow their unique skills to shine across all cadres.

The PS committed to recognizing excellence through commendation letters while also taking a firm stance on addressing underperformance. He urged full adoption of technology, starting with mandatory adoption of the official GOK email platform.

He further urged staff to align their daily efforts with the State Department’s mission, vision, and performance contract by integrating Knowledge Management and prioritizing Succession Planning in all their operations, all while maintaining a strong focus on value-driven performance.

The PS assured the staff that he would make regular feedback a standard practice through weekly online engagements, monthly senior management meetings and biannual meeting where he will be in attendance.

The Principal Secretary had supporting voices that echoed his vision with the Secretary Devolution & IGR, MO Shalle calling for unity, reminding us that our greatest asset is our skilled, competent and experienced team. HR Director Jayne Asuma underscored the importance of mentorship, coaching and knowledge transfer, especially in preparing for seamless continuity. Dr. Jackson Otieno, Director of Planning, sensitized staff on the 2023–2027 Strategic Plan and the FY 2025/26 Work Plan ensuring we are clear on our direction and priorities.

We were honored to be hosted by the Kenya School of Government whose Director General Prof. Nura Mohamed lauded the “Sema na PS” model as a refreshing approach to leadership one that should be emulated across government departments.

Also in attendance were Directors and Heads of Units including Kennedy Nyambati, Lesley Khayadi, Justine Nelima, Stanley Mwaura, Paul Masinde, Felista Ng’ang’a, Pauline Muriithia and Abner Abaga each playing a vital role in the operational heartbeat of the State Department.

Today’s engagement was more than just a meeting. It was a powerful reminder of what happens when leadership listens and when a Department dares to do things differently. As we chart the future of devolution, we are energized, united and ready to deliver results For the People.

 #DevolutionKE