Narok, Kenya – The Council of Governors has launched a pivotal two-day summit held within the Maasai Mara National Reserve, focusing on the advancement of devolution in Kenya after completing the first year of the third cycle.
According to Kenya News Agency, Chairperson Ann Waiguru detailed that the summit’s main agenda includes a comprehensive evaluation of devolution’s weaknesses, strengths, opportunities, and threats. The council aims to strategize on the progression of devolutionary practices within the county governments. The initiative for this reflective retreat was set around the time of the recent elections, underscoring the importance of devolution in Kenya’s political framework.
During the summit, the governors intend to discuss their collaborative efforts with various stakeholders, such as the National Government, civil society, and the private sector. A significant point of consideration will be the devolution of certain functions that remain untransferred to the counties, as well as the resourcing of these functions through avenues like development partners, the national government, equitable share, and conditional grants.
Furthermore, the Council will scrutinize the effectiveness of service delivery to meet citizen expectations. Waiguru, who is also the Governor of Kirinyaga, expressed gratitude towards Narok Governor Patrick Ntutu for hosting the summit at the internationally renowned reserve.
Vice Chairman and Governor of Wajir, Ahmed Abdulahi, highlighted the need to address the repercussions of the El-Nino rains, which have been causing destruction in the North Eastern and Coastal regions. The Council plans to issue their resolutions upon the completion of discussions.
Nandi County Governor Stephen Sang announced a tree-planting initiative featuring the Cabinet Secretary in Charge of Environment, Forestry, and Climate Change Soipan Tuya, showcasing the governors’ commitment to environmental conservation.
The summit serves as a stage for collaborative discussions on the pressing issues faced by the counties, including the severe weather conditions impacting several parts of the country. Narok Governor Ntutu acknowledged the significance of the Council’s meeting in addressing these challenges and devising actionable solutions.