The County Administration of Uasin Gishu held a momentous party for 68 of its employees who exited service last year as a way of appreciating and acknowledging their efforts, dedication and remarkable contributions in various sectors.
The retirees have already been trained on post job life to prepare them psychologically to be able to take care of themselves and the affairs of families after service.
In his speech during the event, at the county headquarters, Eldoret town, Governor Dr. Jonathan Chelilim said that the day marks a significant milestone for the distinguished guests, recognizing their dedicated years of service as they dutifully fulfilled their constitutional mandate, hence the need to be celebrated in accordance with tradition of the county.
“These men and women have called our county home for six decades, showcasing not only commitment to duty but leaving a lasting impact through their service,” he said.
“I would like to single out our longest serving retirees who worked in service for 43 years; Roida Afandi Asambu – Assistant Agricultural officer I and Amina Galgalo-Cleaning supervisor. Congratulations. Your commitment to duty has left an indelible mark in your years of service,” added the governor.
The governor affirmed that the retirees transition into society is key and determines their future while on retirement.
He called on them to go and contribute to societal development in terms of pursuing activities they have long wished to accomplish like farming, enjoying time with grandkids, or exploring new horizons.
“In celebrating your retirement, remember you remain our ambassadors as a family of Uasin Gishu. I urge you to play a central role in contributing to our society’s development agenda,” alluded Dr. Chelilim.
He noted that his administration remains resolute in service delivery aligned to his Nguzo Kumi blueprint and takes care of employees’ affairs during entry into and after service by ensuring they receive their retirement benefits on time to support them through the sunset years.
On his part, The National Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Retirees Benefits and Claims Welfare Association of Kenya ((REBECLWA-K), Benson Ambuni, called on employers to be remitting employees’ pension contributions to the respective pension schemes on time and also urged the pension schemes to put up proper systems to ensure efficiency during the processing of retirement benefits.
He expressed concern over many cases filed to the association by retired employees on pending benefits from various pension schemes.
“We are currently following up on 64 cases we received between November and January this year, the retirees experience different challenges due to the delay in receiving their benefits and others even die before successfully claiming their benefits,” he noted.
He urged the retirees to register with the benefits and claims welfare association so that they may get assistance in processing their benefits.
The REBECLWA-K CEO hinted on working together with the government, pension departments and all stakeholders to agree on a proper framework they can adopt as an association to help people receive their retirement and pension benefits on time.
Others present included County Secretary, Edwin Bett, County Committee Executive Members Dr. Janet Kosgei (Lands), Dr. Sam Kottut (Energy), Mr. Elijah Kosgei (Public Service Management), Deputy County Assembly Speaker Sarah Malel and others.
By Ekuwam Sylvester and Claire Jemutai
