Senate flags Policyholders Compensation Fund over diversity gaps
In terms of ethnic makeup, the Kikuyu community accounts for the highest share of staff at 32.14 per cent, followed by the Kisii at 3 per cent.
The Senate has raised concerns about the Policyholders Compensation Fund’s (PCF) efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion within its staff, urging the institution to align more closely with constitutional values on equal representation.
Appearing before the Senate Standing Committee on National Cohesion, Equal Opportunity and Regional Integration, PCF Chief Executive Officer Mohamed Sahal explained the current staffing setup and the fund’s compliance with national standards.
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The session, led by Marsabit Senator Mohamed Said Chute, focused on the institution’s level of inclusivity across gender, age, and ethnic lines.
Mohamed Sahal stated that the staffing structure, which was adopted in 2021, had been developed and reviewed by the State Corporations Advisory Committee and the National Trustees before being approved by the Board of Trustees.
The approved structure outlines a full staff capacity of 31, though only 28 positions are currently filled.
Providing a breakdown of gender distribution, Mohamed said the workforce includes 10 women, representing 36 per cent, while men account for 18 employees or 64 per cent. He also pointed out that the fund has employed one individual living with a disability.
In terms of ethnic makeup, the Kikuyu community accounts for the highest share of staff at 32.14 per cent, followed by the Kisii at 3 per cent.
The Kalenjin, Mijikenda, Somali, Meru, and Luo each represent 2 per cent of the workforce, while the Taveta, Kamba, Suba, and Luhya communities each make up 1 per cent.
He also highlighted that 36 per cent of the staff are youth, while the remaining 64 per cent are older employees, suggesting a mix of experience and younger talent.
“The Fund does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, religion, ethnicity, or any other characteristic in its recruitment and staffing processes. We remain committed to building a workforce that reflects the face of Kenya,” said Mohamed, as he reaffirmed the Fund’s dedication to fairness.
He noted that the institution is guided by Articles 52 and 57 of the Constitution and follows national policies on gender equality and the inclusion of persons with disabilities in employment.
While acknowledging the Fund’s progress, the Senate committee asked PCF to intensify its efforts in ensuring fair representation across all categories.
Members urged the institution to go beyond minimal compliance and adopt proactive measures to include all communities and underrepresented groups in its recruitment and staffing processes.
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