The National Assembly's committee on Regional Development has initiated public participation on the proposed Regional Development Authorities Laws (Repeal) Bill, 2026, which seeks to dissolve all six regional development authorities (RDAs). The move, part of broader governance reforms, aims to streamline administrative structures but has raised concerns about the potential impact on regional development initiatives. The committee, led by Members of Parliament, is inviting public input ahead of legislative deliberations, with the process set to commence in the coming weeks. Established under Kenya's devolution framework in 2013, the RDAs were tasked with coordinating development projects across counties. However, critics argue that the agencies have faced challenges in accountability and efficiency, with some accusing them of duplicating functions of county governments. The draft bill, if passed, would repeal the 2013 laws governing the RDAs, transferring their responsibilities to the national government or local authorities. The National Assembly's committee emphasized that the public consultation is a statutory requirement to ensure transparency in the legislative process. The proposed repeal comes amid ongoing debates about the role of regional bodies in Kenya's devolved system. While proponents argue that dissolving the RDAs could reduce bureaucratic overlap and enhance fiscal discipline, opponents warn that it may undermine localized development efforts. The committee has not yet specified how responsibilities will be redistributed, leaving questions about the future of regional coordination. Public feedback is expected to shape the final version of the bill, with submissions due by a date yet to be announced. The initiative aligns with the National Assembly's current focus on legislative reforms, including education restructuring and fiscal accountability measures. However, the RDAs' dissolution remains a contentious issue, reflecting broader tensions between centralized control and decentralized governance. As Kenya navigates these reforms, the outcome of the public consultation will be critical in determining the balance between efficiency and regional autonomy.
Nation Africa: https://www.nation.africa/kenya/news/draft-law-seeks-to-scrap-six-regional-agencies-20261115
Kenya's Draft Law Targets Dissolution of Six Regional Development Authorities
Nation Africa: https://www.nation.africa/kenya/news/draft-law-seeks-to-scrap-six-regional-agencies-20261115
Kenya's Draft Law Targets Dissolution of Six Regional Development Authorities