This archive report was first published on 11 November 2019.
Published on November 11, 2019, counties in Kenya have been touted as the 'low-hanging fruit' that can ease pressure on the national government.
However, the 47 devolved units continue to rely heavily on National Treasury funding, which often leads to delays and a standstill in operations.
Many small-scale businesses, started by local investors to implement infrastructural and other projects, are crippled by pending bills.
Cartels have also taken root, further hindering progress and preventing counties from unleashing their potential.
Senate Speaker Ken Lusaka has emphasized the need to reduce government bureaucracy to boost business competitiveness and attract investors.
As the head of the institution overseeing counties, Mr Lusaka knows that even red tape has been devolved, and counties must take responsibility for their actions.
County governments must come up with plans and incentives to attract private investors, creating new centres for job creation and easing the national unemployment crisis.
The Kenya Private Sector Alliance can play a pivotal role in this effort, sharing its knowledge and expertise to overcome challenges and boost industrialization.
