In a significant shift within the civil service, the government has announced plans to retire over 43,000 civil servants over the next five years, following a directive from President William Ruto.

Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura revealed that 7,662 civil servants will retire in the current fiscal year alone, as part of a mandate for those aged 60 and above to exit without tenure extensions.

“This year alone, over seven thousand job openings will be available for young people,” Mwaura stated during a press briefing on August 22. The impending retirements, expected from various state departments and public institutions, are seen as an opportunity to rejuvenate the workforce with younger talent.

According to data, the public service workforce was reported at 923,100 in the 2020/2021 fiscal year. With 39,360 civil servants already eligible for retirement, Mwaura highlighted the urgency of this transition: “The government is committed to filling these vacancies and ensuring the public sector is revitalized.”

Public universities will face substantial impacts, with reports indicating that 2,573 staff members are currently over 60, alongside hundreds in state corporations and ministries. The retirements will cumulatively create approximately 46,000 job vacancies, paving the way for the next generation of civil servants.

This proactive approach aligns with the Public Service Commission’s policies, aiming to ensure a balanced and effective public service that can better serve the nation.