The Kenya Devolution Programme (KDP) – Timiza Ugatuzi, funded by UK in Kenya, supported a successful Kenya Devolution Civil Society Organizations Working Group (KDCWG) National Assembly which reviewed progress in the implementation of devolution in Kenya highlighted the challenges.
The KDCWG National Assembly:
✅ Assessed progress in implementation of devolution and the challenges hindering effective realization of devolved governance in Kenya.
✅ Explored the strategies for strengthening accountability and inclusion of the citizens in public finance management.
✅ Adopted strategies for enhancing the engagement of the CSOs and citizens in the intergovernmental relations.
✅ Issued a public statement addressing critical issues affecting devolution.
The Controller of Budget, FCPA Dr. Margaret Nyakang’o, CBS, delivered a keynote address during the opening session and emphasized on the importance of collaboration between civil society organizations (CSOs) and government in strengthening financial accountability.
Intergovernmental relations and public finance management experts provided insights into the constitutional and legal foundations for devolution and financing of the devolved governance in Kenya. On the other hand, participants examined the progress and key challenges facing devolution, including corruption, poor budget transparency, failure to prioritise civic education, lack of political commitment for public participation and gaps in revenue mobilization. The discussions underscored the need for stronger partnerships, policy alignment, and effective governance as key to advancing the devolution agenda.
The leaders of the CSOs’ networks used the occasion to develop a strategic roadmap to guide them in influencing implementation of devolution and inclusive development.
The key resolutions and outputs of the National Assembly included:
✅ Adoption of the KDCWG Work Plan for 2025, outlining county level, regional and national advocacy priorities.
✅ Adoption of the strategy for strengthening the CSOs’ participation in intergovernmental relations processes.
✅ Election of the first substantive KDCWG Steering Committee to lead forum’s policy and advocacy engagements.
✅ Outgoing and newly elected conveners reflected on KDCWG’s achievements, while the State Department of Devolution reaffirmed its dedication to capacity building and policy alignment.
✅ Participants pledged to sustain partnerships, advance legislative advocacy, and deepen citizen engagement to ensure a more inclusive and responsive governance framework.
The Assembly reinforced that devolution thrives through collaboration between government, civil society, and development partners, driving policy coherence and effective service delivery across all levels.