Kenya, Israel explore deeper cooperation in public service and disaster management

Israeli Ambassador to Kenya Gideon Behar paid a courtesy call on Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku at Harambee House on Thursday, where discussions focused on collaboration in public service digitalisation, human capital development, institutional capacity building and knowledge exchange.

The talks examined how Israeli technical expertise and innovation could support Kenya’s ongoing public sector reforms, particularly in modernising service delivery systems.

CS Ruku noted that existing institutions such as the Kenya School of Government (KSG) and the National Youth Service (NYS) could serve as channels for skills development, leadership training and structured knowledge transfer.

Disaster preparedness and response also featured prominently, with both sides exchanging views on institutional readiness in the face of climate-related emergencies. Ambassador Behar shared insights from Israel’s experience in disaster management, climate resilience and agricultural adaptation.

Agricultural innovation, especially irrigation technology, was discussed as a potential area for institutional learning. Ambassador Behar highlighted Israel’s use of advanced drip irrigation systems to enhance food security in water-scarce environments, noting their relevance to Kenya’s public sector training and capacity-building efforts.

CS Ruku said any cooperation would align with Kenya’s national development priorities and existing government frameworks, and would be coordinated with relevant ministries.

The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary for Public Service and Human Capital Development Dr Jane Kere Imbunya.

Kenya reaffirmed its interest in partnerships that strengthen institutional capacity and public service delivery, while Israel expressed readiness to share technical knowledge in areas of mutual interest.