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The County Government of Uasin Gishu has broadened its functions following the transfer of Kenya National Library Services (KNLS) to devolved units.

The transfer of KNLS is a big boost to the devolved unit adding muscle to the rolling out of Information Communication Technology (ICT) and youth empowerment programs.

In the Kenya Gazette notice dated August 9, 2019, the Inter-Governmental Technical Relations Committee (IGTRC) approved the delineation of KNLS functions and distribution of libraries between the National and County Governments.

Speaking while receiving files and records yesterday, Uasin Gishu County Director of Human Resource, Josephat Rotich said the transfer is an advantage to the County Government.

“The County administration under the leadership of Governor Jonathan Bii has a keen interest in ICT and youth empowerment. KNLS will therefore play a key role in rolling out of ICT incubation for our youth,” said Rotich.

According to Rotich, 18 staff under KNLS have been transferred to the County with effect from July 1, 2023, adding that the library service will be under the Department of ICT and e-Government.

County Public Service Board Acting Secretary Silah Rono said the board will expedite the integration of transferred personnel to the county employment systems, as per set out structures.

IGTRC’s Martin Kuelekho said the committee is finalising ensuring that all functions meant to be devolved as per the constitution are transferred to counties.

KNLS is a corporate body of the Kenyan government with the mandate to “promote, establish, equip, manage, maintain and develop libraries in Kenya”.