Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Thursday August 28,2024, convened a pivotal meeting with Senators from eleven counties to assess the impact and success of devolution in their regions.
The session aimed to evaluate the achievements and challenges faced since the advent of devolution, which was intended to bring governance closer to the people and spur local development.
The meeting brought together Senators from Meru, Murang’a, Tharaka-Nithi, Kiambu, Embu, Nyandarua, Kirinyaga, Nyeri, Nakuru, Lamu, and Laikipia, along with Nominated Senator Veronica Maina.
Each senator was tasked with presenting a comprehensive audit of devolution’s effects in their respective counties.
Senator from Meru, for example, highlighted improvements in local infrastructure and increased funding for education, though concerns were raised about equitable distribution of resources.
Murang’a’s representative focused on advancements in healthcare services, noting a reduction in mortality rates, while also stressing the need for better facilities and equipment.
Tharaka-Nithi Senator showcased progress in agricultural projects, which have led to enhanced productivity. However, issues related to land disputes and inadequate support for small-scale farmers were also pointed out.
Kiambu’s Senator reported significant strides in urban development and transport, yet expressed concerns about the management of urban growth and its impact on rural areas.
In Embu, the emphasis was on improved local governance and public service delivery, although there were calls for more accountability and transparency in the allocation of funds.
Nyandarua’s representative discussed achievements in water supply projects, but highlighted ongoing challenges in managing these resources effectively.
Kirinyaga’s Senator spoke about successful local business initiatives and entrepreneurial support, while also addressing the need for more infrastructure development to support these ventures.
Nyeri’s Senator emphasized advancements in education and healthcare, but called for more investment in vocational training and job creation.
Nakuru’s representative shared successes in regional trade and investment, yet expressed concerns about the uneven distribution of development projects within the county.
Lamu’s Senator reported improvements in tourism and conservation efforts but flagged issues related to environmental degradation and its impact on local communities.
Laikipia’s Senator discussed progress in community development projects and infrastructure, but raised concerns about the impact of climate change on local agriculture and the need for more sustainable practices.
Nominated Senator Veronica Maina contributed to the discussion by offering a broader perspective on the integration of marginalized communities and promoting inclusive development practices across counties.
Deputy President Gachagua commended the Senators for their detailed reports and emphasized the importance of continuing to address the disparities and challenges identified.
He stressed that the devolution process is an evolving journey that requires ongoing commitment and collaboration between national and local governments.
The meeting concluded with a call for renewed efforts to ensure that the benefits of devolution reach all corners of the country and that all citizens experience tangible improvements in their daily lives.
