By Samson Wire
A section of staff from the County Government of Siaya, representing various departments, has initiated formal deliberations aimed at establishing a County Staff Welfare Scheme.
The scheme will primarily cater for bereavement support, with members expected to contribute KSh 300 per month through check-off deductions.
The team comprises representatives from various departments, including: Eng. Adrian Ouma (Head of Protocol Unit), Susan Milongo, Linda Miruka, Calvin Awuora, Linah Akelo, Achieng Ndiege, Veenah Adero, Esther Amolo, Austin Ogola, Aggrey Ondiege, and Caren Awich, among others.
The team has tentatively proposed Susan Milongo as Temporary Chairlady, Linda Miruka as Secretary General, and Caren Awich as Treasurer. The officials will be responsible for maintaining records and managing the welfare contributions once the scheme is formalized.
Last week, the team met with the Director of Human Resource Management, Susan Rabah, to discuss the proposals. Key issues deliberated included the need for wider consultations across all county departments, the proposed KSh 300 monthly check-off deduction, the development of a draft concept paper to guide the scheme, and a revitalization plan under the guidance of the Directorate of Human Resource Management.
Today, the group met with the Chief Officer for Governance and Administration, Hon. Walter Okelo, to brief him on the ongoing deliberations and proposals. Hon. Okelo welcomed the initiative, describing it as long overdue. He pledged support from the County Executive.
“I have witnessed numerous cases of bereavement among county government staff on a daily basis. Unfortunately, some colleagues are laid to rest without proper support because staff members are overwhelmed and lack adequate information,” he said.
He emphasized the need for regular deliberations and sensitization sessions to create awareness among all staff on the benefits of the proposed welfare scheme before it is rolled out.
Once finalized, the welfare scheme will provide support for bereavement cases involving members of staff’s nuclear family and dependents, as outlined in the draft concept paper and guidelines.