Somali community grossly underrepresented in public service: PSC

The latest Public Service Commission (PSC) report has once again ignited a firestorm of debate, this time highlighting the stark underrepresentation of the Kenyan Somali community within the nation's public service. While concerns around ethnic imbalances have simmered for years, the 2022-2023 report reveals a particularly troubling disparity for this specific community.

Among the 46 recognized ethnic groups in Kenya, the Somali community stands alone as "grossly underrepresented," meaning their presence in government falls far short of their proportional national size. This stark reality stands in stark contrast to the "overrepresentation" observed in communities like the Kikuyu and Kalenjin, further amplifying the sense of exclusion faced by many Kenyans of Somali descent.

The Kisii and Luo communities closely follow, labelled as overrepresented, highlighting a trend that has long raised eyebrows.

This systemic imbalance isn't just a statistical anomaly; it has tangible consequences. It denies Kenyan Somalis their rightful share of opportunities, hinders their participation in shaping national policies, and undermines the fundamental principle of equality enshrined in Article 232 of the Kenyan Constitution, which demands a "representative public service."

At the bottom of the spectrum are the Kenyan American and Dahalo communities, entirely unrepresented in the public service, raising questions about inclusivity and diversity in government institutions.

Article 232 of the 2010 Constitution emphasises the need for a representative public service that provides equal opportunities to all Kenyan communities.

Despite this constitutional mandate, the PSC reports consistently reveal a failure to achieve balanced representation, fueling concerns about the influence of ethnicity in government appointments.