The District Officer

Ann Muhonja Songole, 27, is a district officer in Nairobi. She speaks to Shirley Genga about her job.

What is your work history?

I joined Nairobi University in 2004 to study Communication and Economics. After graduating in 2008, I got a job at Octagon Pension and worked there until June 2009. I then joined the events company Soho Industrial Ltd. There, I learnt how to network, set deadlines for suppliers and successfully organise an event. After three months I left and got a part time job at Nakumatt, where I did research work and wrote profiles plus features for Smart news.

While expecting my first child in November of 2009, I heard about the position of DO in Nairobi. I applied and even indicated that I was pregnant and by February 2010, I was informed that I had gotten the job. I was a bit surprised when I was picked because I had always imagined that you had to know someone to get a job or that I was disadvantaged because I was pregnant. I thought they were very fair. I officially began work in April of 2010 as a DO for Nairobi.

What does your job as a DO entail?

Coordination of Government activities and implementation of policies in the grassroots for example; Kazi Kwa Vijana, free primary education, the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act and regulations. We coordinate with different government departments on various issues from health to education to issuance of ID cards. We oversee security in Nairobi area. This requires that we coordinate with our Administration Police officers in apprehending suspects and with the Kenya Police in arresting them.

At my station, we forward progress reports on what we have been doing throughout the quarter and targets we have met with regard to: Performance contracts, Rapid Results Initiative and Complaints. We also arbitrate conflicts between individuals and communities or direct people to the correct offices where they can be assisted. We work with the Ministry of Information in providing press coverage for our office during national holidays and other important days. My job is very versatile.

What do you love about the job?

I love the fact that I am surrounded by influential and knowledgeable people. My position allows me to be kept abreast with social and security matters in Nairobi. My job also enables me to meet different people. Today I meet with the PC and tomorrow I am meeting the directors of different organisations.

I also get satisfaction when I am able to provide necessary information. If a person has a problem with their ID, I can direct them to go see the District Registrar, if a person is sick and they do not have money, I can advice them on where to get help through the health officer in their district. If a person wants to register a community-based organisation, I will send them to the Ministry of Gender. Thus I have to be on my toes on information regarding the different government offices.

Do you face any challenges?

I get so many people who come to my office with heart-wrenching stories and sometimes a person may come with a problem that is difficult to solve. It is also difficult to ascertain who is sincere with their problem or who is just playing at your sympathy.

If you were not a DO what would you be?

I would be in the development field. In fact, I intend to go back to school to study for a Masters in Development Studies.