The Sixth Annual Devolution Conference in Kirinyaga County has drawn attention to the system's mixed outcomes six years after its implementation. While devolution transformed governance by decentralizing resources and decision-making, persistent financial reliance on national funding and systemic corruption threaten its long-term viability.
Decentralization's Initial Successes ¶
The shift to county governments empowered local communities by enabling grassroots decision-making through county assemblies and sub-county committees. This model led to visible improvements in infrastructure, with tarmac roads and medical facilities constructed in previously underserved areas. Previously, national-level resource allocation favored politically connected regions, creating uneven development.
Emerging Challenges ¶
Despite these gains, counties face critical issues. The National Treasury is constitutionally obligated to allocate 15% of national revenue to counties, supplemented by the Equalisation Fund for marginalized areas. However, this funding model has fostered dependency, with counties struggling when disbursements are delayed. Audits reveal that local governments collect less revenue than their predecessor systems, while corruption persists through mismanagement and favoritism.
Call for Institutional Reform ¶
Conference participants emphasize that counties must transition from reliance on national subsidies to self-sustaining revenue models. Addressing graft, nepotism, and inefficiency is critical to ensuring devolution fulfills its promise of equitable development. The event aims to move beyond symbolic discussions to concrete strategies for strengthening local governance.
