Abstract:
Purpose – The paper aims to explore the implementation of performance-oriented civil service reforms
(CSRs) in Kenya, noting hurdles and opportunities for improvement and to suggest a robust model to
imbed a performance-oriented reforms culture.
Design/methodology/approach – The article is informed by a review of the literature on civil service
reforms and applications of performance measurements in civil service reforms in Africa in general and
specifically in Kenya. Current performance-oriented reforms/practices and challenges are documented,
obstacles/gaps to effective implementation identified, opportunities for improvement isolated and a
robust model to inculcate a performance-oriented culture suggested for application.
Findings – While noticeable progress has been made in implementation of CSRs in Kenya, there
evidently remain obstacles in the implementation of performance-oriented civil service reforms. Civil
service reforms ought to revolve around performance measurements; rewarding good performance and
realigning resources to support desired changes, while simultaneously stimulating competition amongst
public entities so as to support superior public service delivery.
Originality/value – The paper provides a succinct account of the state of civil service reforms in Kenya
and particularly the drive towards performance-oriented reforms. It suggests a holistic approach to
engraining a performance-oriented culture
