Salaries, Responsibilities and Terms of Service of Principal Secretaries in Kenya

The office of Principal Secretary was established under Article 155 of the Constitution.

Each State department is managed by a Principal Secretary (PS), who is appointed by the President with the approval of the National Assembly.

PSs play a vital role in ensuring that their respective departments operate efficiently and align with the government’s strategic objectives.

Salaries

PSs earn a monthly gross salary of Ksh 819,844 which includes a house allowance of Ksh 150,000 and a salary market adjustment of Ksh 156,07512.

Additionally, they receive gratuity at the end of their term, amounting to 31% of their annual basic pay for each year served.

Duties and responsibilities of PSs

A PS is responsible to the Cabinet Secretary in the performance of their duties.

According to the Public Service Commission (PSC) specific duties and responsibilities include;

1. Acting as the Accounting Officer and Authorized Officer of the State Department.
2. Implementing Government policies and the Strategic Plan for the State Department.
3. Facilitating the achievement of the goals and objectives of Government and inter-Governmental programmes and projects.
4. Developing and implementing an effective performance management system.
5. Ensuring efficient and effective utilization of financial, human, and other resources in the State Department and submitting regular statutory reports as required.
6. Promoting the values and principles spelt out in Articles 10 and 232 of the Constitution of Kenya.

Requirements

The requirements for an appointment as a PS are follows;

1. Be a citizen of Kenya.
2. Hold a degree from a university recognized in Kenya.
3. Have at least ten years of relevant professional experience, five years of which should have been in a leadership position or at a top management level in the public service or private sector.
4. Possess general knowledge of the organization and functions of Government.
5. Demonstrate an understanding of the goals, policies, and developmental objectives of the nation.
6. Have demonstrable leadership and management capacity, including knowledge of financial management and strategic people management.
7. Meet the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution on leadership and integrity.

Terms of service

According to PSC, a PS will serve on contract as determined by the appointing Authority and the gross monthly salary.

Benefits attached to this position will be as determined by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission as per the Kenya Gazette No. 10346 of 9th August 2023.

Additionally, serving public servants appointed to this position may be granted leave of absence by the Public Service Commission.