This archive report was first published on 7 August 2020.
On August 7, 2020, the Kenyan Senate was engaged in a heated debate over the sharing of funds among the 47 counties. The debate centered on two opposing views, one arguing that population size should be the main consideration in the allocation of funds, while the other advocated for land size to be the basis for division of funds.
The Commission on Revenue Allocation (CRA) had recommended a formula based mainly on the principle of population, which was supported by Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga. He argued that population size has implications for services such as health, education, and infrastructure.
However, the opposing side argued that the principle of population size disadvantages marginalized counties inhabited mainly by pastoralist communities. They claimed that this marginalization was not incidental but had been a key feature of development policy since Sessional Paper No. 10 of 1965.
Despite the opposing views, Odinga suggested that arguments advanced by members from pastoralist communities should be factored in a future revenue-sharing formula. He emphasized the need for a consensus to avoid crippling county governments.
However, behind the veil of educated debate, a subjective and deeply ingrained factor – tribalism – lurked. Senators were influenced by tribal whispers and calculations, rather than objective and reasonable considerations.
Kenya's history, dating back to its formation from different ethnic 'nations' by the British in 1895, has contributed to this tribalism. At independence, the most urgent project should have been nurturing a Kenyan consciousness, but unfortunately, those who took power invoked ethnic consciousness as a political strategy.
As a result, development projects are often seen as benefiting specific ethnic communities rather than the broader Kenyan population. For instance, a road built in the northeastern region is seen as benefiting the Somali community, rather than as a project that benefits Kenyans of all ethnicities who make that region their home.
