Nairobi, 6th November 2024
Innovation and Digital Economy sector successfully conducted an impactful induction program for its newly employed officers at the Pride Inn Azure Westlands, setting the stage for a future of growth and innovation within the sector.
Mr. Wilson Gakuya, the County Chief Officer for Smart Nairobi, welcomed attendees with a strong message about the significance of the induction process. He emphasized the need to properly anchor staff within the county establishment, stating, “This induction is designed to promote awareness and understanding of county processes, helping you navigate your overall career journey.” Mr. Gakuya also highlighted the importance of financial prudence, urging participants to cultivate a culture of savings. “While it is vital to enjoy temporary pleasures such as entertainment, it is equally crucial to plan for the future, especially post-retirement,” he said, reinforcing the critical need for sustainable financial habits.
In a historical overview of the IDE sector, Mr. Tiras Njoroge, Chief Officer for Revenue Administration and Acting Chief Officer of ICT Infrastructure, reflected on the evolution of the sector. He noted the transformative journey from a punch room unit to a structured framework of three chief officers. Expressing optimism for the future, Mr. Njoroge welcomed the recent influx of young talent, stating, “Our new recruits are strategically selected to meet the current needs of the sector, a significant shift from past hiring practices.”
The significance of early engagement in pension schemes was reiterated by Mr. Sande Oyolo, County Chief Officer for Digital Economy and Startups. He encouraged the new employees to capitalize on these programs, stressing their long-term benefits.
Representatives from LAPFUND, Gloria Lijoodi and Faith Wanyoike, provided a comprehensive overview of the various pension benefits available to IDE members. Ms. Wanyoike emphasized the importance of proactive planning for retirement and detailing benefits such as the Lump Sum Benefit, which offers a one-time payment equivalent to the total fund value, including contributions and accrued interest. Participants were encouraged to explore LAPFUND’s resources for further information.
The induction also featured essential workplace training led by the Human Resources Management department. Sessions covered topics such as workplace safety (WIBA/OSHA), county benefits, the code of conduct, and mental health awareness. These discussions were designed to equip the new members with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the challenges and opportunities in their new roles.
As the program wrapped up, the officers were advised to exercise financial prudency by enrolling in pension schemes of their choice.
The induction event fostered a strong sense of community among the new IDE members with continued support from sectors’ leadership, reinforcing the importance of both immediate engagements in their roles and long-term financial planning.
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