Official speeches delivered during the 8th Annual Hansard Association of Kenya Conference, held in Kisumu in May 2026.
8th Hansard Association of Kenya Annual Conference | 10th - 16th May, 2026
Below are the official speeches delivered during the 8th Annual HAK Conference. Click each title to access the full speech document.
Speaker, Kisumu County Assembly | Opening Keynote Address
Clerk, Kisumu County Assembly | Conference Address
Hon. Kamau Aidi | Chairperson, Society of Clerks-at-the-Table Kenya
Clerk of the Senate / Secretary, Parliamentary Service Commission | Monday, 11th May, 2026
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8th Hansard Association of Kenya Annual Conference | 10th - 16th May, 2026
MR. J. M. NYEGENYE, CBS
Clerk of the Senate / Secretary, Parliamentary Service Commission
Monday, 11th May, 2026 | Grand Royal Swiss Hotel, Kisumu County
Distinguished dignitaries present:
Good morning.
1. It is a great honour and privilege to address you today at this 8th Hansard Association Conference. We gather here, Hansard Practitioners from the National Parliament, County Assemblies, our EAC Regional Parliament - EALA and other EAC Parliaments, our neighbours, the Parliaments of Uganda and Tanzania and other African Parliaments. Karibuni sana to our international guests.
2. This gathering comes at a time when the role of Hansard in strengthening parliamentary democracy is more critical and dynamic than before. The Hansard is not merely a record of proceedings; it is the institutional memory of Parliament, the authoritative voice of legislative debate and a cornerstone of transparency and accountability. Through your work, life is given to the spoken word, preserving it for generations and ensuring that leadership remains answerable to the people.
3. What began in 2013, during a training workshop for Hansard staff was not just a moment of professional development, but the seed of a shared vision grounded in collaboration, excellence and continuous strengthening of our institutional capacity. From those early discussions and exchanges, the HAK Association was born. It was fueled by a common purpose and a commitment to support one another beyond the confines of that initial workshop. Over the years, the vision has grown into a vibrant platform for knowledge sharing, mentorship and professional growth.
4. Hansard professionals have seen the power of unity in advancing skills, improving standards and fostering innovation. The Association has not only strengthened professional ties but also built lasting friendships and a sense of camaraderie among its members. As we look ahead, let us remember the spirit of 2013, the curiosity, the enthusiasm and the willingness to learn from one another. Let us continue to build on that foundation, embracing new challenges and opportunities with the same determination that brought us together.
5. The theme, "The Hansard: Milestones, Gains and Impact" is timely. Over time, our work has evolved in response to changing political, technological and societal demands. Today, we are here to celebrate the milestones achieved and share best practices that continue to shape and strengthen Hansard operations across our institutions. This gathering offers us not only a moment to reflect on how far we have come, but also an opportunity to critically examine the evolving role of the Hansard in strengthening democratic institutions and preserving the public record.
6. This Conference invites us to engage with four critical areas shaping the future of Hansard production:
(a) Language Use in the Hansard
7. In multilingual and diverse societies, the question of language is not simply about communication, but also about inclusion, accuracy and representation. How we capture speech, nuance and intent has profound implications on how history is recorded and understood.
8. Equally important is the need to adapt to changing communication patterns within our legislatures. Today's and indeed tomorrow's legislators increasingly use informal expressions, (for example in Kenya) Sheng and colloquial Kiswahili to connect with citizens. While this enriches debate, it also presents unique transcription challenges. As Hansard professionals, you must develop clear standards and innovate approaches to accurately capture such expressions without losing meaning or distorting content.
9. We have also witnessed increasing complexity in parliamentary discourse. Faster-paced debates, multilingual contributions and the growing expectation for near real-time publication have challenged us to refine both our skills and our systems. Through collaboration, training and shared standards, Hansard professionals have consistently risen to meet those challenges.
(b) Public Participation and Governance
10. As citizens increasingly demand openness and engagement, the Hansard plays a vital role in making legislative processes accessible and meaningful to the public. Your work ensures that participation is informed and that governance remains transparent.
11. In this regard, I also wish to emphasise the importance of aligning editorial standards with the evolving procedural framework of legislatures. This will ensure consistency, accuracy and fidelity to procedure in the reporting of parliamentary proceedings.
(c) Technology, Accessibility and Hansard Reporting
12. The digital age presents both opportunities and challenges. As we reflect on the future, we cannot ignore the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence. AI is rapidly defining how information is captured, processed and disseminated. In the Hansard profession, this presents both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, AI-Powered transcription tools promise speed, efficiency and real time reporting in capturing words but on the other hand, it is the human intellect that interprets context, nuance, tone and intent.
13. The Hansard Reporter of the future must therefore evolve into a hybrid professional - technically proficient and digitally literate. Mastery of new tools, platforms and systems will not only fast-track your work but also enhance the quality and reliability of parliamentary records.
(d) Staff Wellness at the Workplace and Beyond
14. Behind every accurate record is a dedicated professional. The demands of precision, speed and sometimes working for long hours require that we pay close attention to the well-being of Hansard practitioners. Sustainable excellence depends on healthy, supported and motivated teams.
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen,
15. The impact of the HANSARD is seen in informed debate, accountable leadership and empowered citizens. It is reflected in the ability of future generations to look back, understand and learn from the decisions made today.
16. Despite these technological advancements, the essence of Hansard professionals has remained constant; accurate, impartial and with fidelity to the spoken word. We are not merely recorders of speech but custodians of history. Every debate you capture contributes to the democratic record that future generations will rely upon to understand decisions made today.
17. As we look ahead, several priorities emerge:
18. As I conclude, let us remember that our work gives voice permanence. Long after debates have ended and chambers have emptied, the record remains. It informs, educates and holds power to account. The future will undoubtedly bring change, but it also brings opportunity. If we remain grounded in our principles while open to innovation, we will not only adapt but also lead.
19. As we deliberate over the coming sessions, I encourage open dialogue, practical exchange of ideas and a willingness to challenge assumptions. Let us learn from one another's experiences, celebrate our achievements and identify actionable pathways forward. I encourage you to actively engage, contribute your insights and draw inspiration from the collective wisdom gathered here. Together, we can continue to elevate the standards and impact of Hansard practice across our institutions.
20. The Parliamentary Service Commission remains fully committed to supporting the Hansard Association of Kenya in its mission to promote excellence, professionalism and innovation. Owing to the crucial role of the HANSARD in the legislature, I urge accounting officers to continue strengthening Hansard Directorates/Departments in the respective legislatures so that they remain relevant and well equipped in the changing technological environment. Investing in technology, capacity building and a conducive working environment for Hansard practitioners will remain our priority.
21. I commend all members, both past and present for their dedication and financial support. May this Association continue to thrive, inspire and make a meaningful impact in our legislatures for many years to come.
22. In conclusion, I urge all the delegates to take a moment from the Conference programme to enjoy the spectacular city of Kisumu.
Thank you!
J.M. NYEGENYE, CBS
Clerk of the Senate / Secretary, Parliamentary Service
Commission
Monday, 11th May, 2026
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