By Dorothy Musyoka
Kenya has marked a remarkable 12-year journey of devolution, celebrating transformative milestones that have reshaped governance, inclusivity, and service delivery across the country.
Speaking during the official opening of the 9th Devolution Conference in Homa Bay County, the Government reaffirmed its commitment to unlocking the full potential of devolved governance.
Since the advent of devolution, the Government has transferred over KSh 4 trillion to counties, fostering equitable resource distribution and addressing historical marginalisation.
“We celebrate the transformative milestones of devolution. In just 12 years, we have transferred KSh4 trillion to counties, fostering inclusivity through fair resource distribution and addressing marginalisation,” stated President Ruto.
This year, the equitable share allocation to counties has been increased by nearly KSh 30 billion, with the Treasury ensuring timely disbursements and clearing all outstanding balances owed to the devolved units.
In a significant step towards full devolution, 14 outstanding functions have been conclusively delineated, unbundled, and gazetted.
“We have also conclusively delineated, unbundled and gazetted 14 outstanding devolved functions, initiated the transfer of county assets, and enacted supportive legislation,” added the President.
The Government has also initiated the transfer of county assets and enacted supportive legislation to strengthen devolved governance structures.
Counties are being supported to digitise their operations to enhance efficiency, improve transparency, and curb wastage of public resources, ensuring that public funds deliver tangible development outcomes.
The 9th Devolution Conference brought together leaders from national and county governments, development partners, and stakeholders to reflect on the progress of devolution.