The Kenya Devolution CSOs Working Group (KDCWG) held a two-day meeting to deliberate on bold strategies for enhancing devolution in Kenya and how to increase citizen voice and participation for effective implementation of devolution.
Day 1 focused on reaffirming the foundational principles of devolution, promoting inclusive governance, and positioning the network as a credible, non-partisan actor. Key themes included youth engagement, transparency, and a shift toward bottom-up leadership models. The message was clear: devolution must work for everyone. Corruption was identified as a key barrier, with members calling for localized interventions, empowering citizens in anti-corruption efforts, and boycotting assets acquired through illicit means as a form of civic resistance. Joseph Kimani Njuguna, Program Manager – Democratic Governance at the Royal Danish Embassy, and Tom Were, CEO – Act Change Transform joined the meeting and reaffirmed support for KDCWG’s mission to make devolution work for all..
Day 2 shifted focus from dialogue to delivery; centering on actionable steps, sustainability, and operational clarity. Members committed to strengthening data systems, documenting success stories, and ensuring knowledge products are accessible and impactful.
The meeting concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and a clear roadmap for action. Members committed to finalizing the overall action plan, establishing a Devolution Study Group, and mobilizing efforts ahead of the 2025 Devolution Conference in August. They also agreed on key priority issues to collectively champion before, during, and after DevCon 2025, including the full transfer of county functions and corresponding resources, intensified anti-corruption efforts, and meaningful public participation. Anchored in collaboration, data, and strong civic voices, KDCWG is moving forward with clarity and momentum.
