Following the just concluded Devolution Conference held from 15th to 19th August 2023 in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, the Council of Governors (CoG) held a thanksgiving dinner for the Devolution Conference Steering Committee and Uasin Gishu County on Friday, 2nd September 2023 in Nairobi.
In attendance were H.E Ahmed Abdullahi Vice Chair, CoG & Chair of the Devolution Conference Steering Committee, H.E Eng. John Kibet Barorot, Deputy Governor, Uasin Gishu and Chairperson of the County Planning Committee, Senator Catherine Muma, Mr. Tom Odero Regional Police Commander, Rift Valley Region, Hon. Philemon Sabulei Chairperson, County Assemblies Forum, Ms. Mary Mwiti CoG CEO and the CoG secretariat.
“The preparation for this year’s Conference was spearheaded by a Steering Committee and a Planning Committee. The Conference stands as a true testament of the great heights we can achieve when we work together. I would like to convey my heartfelt gratitude to all of you and the Planning team, led by Ms. Mary Mwiti for their dedication in making this conference successful. You are our unsung heroes and heroines,” said Governor Ahmed Abdullahi.
CEO Ms. Mary Mwiti on her part noted that extensive planning, team work and sacrifice had gone a long way in ensuring the fruition of the Conference.
“This journey was not without challenges. On 19th March 2023, some staff members got into a road accident as they were travelling to Uasin Gishu County for a recce visit. Thankfully, all of them survived albeit with injuries and remained undeterred in undertaking their duties in the planning and execution of the Conference. Today, we celebrate you,” noted the CEO.
She further thanked the Devolution Conference Steering Committee for their guidance and support in the entire process adding that the dinner had come just a day after a close out meeting with the overall Planning Committee.
“The meeting provided an opportunity for us to celebrate the successes of the Conference, receive feedback on what worked and possible areas of improvement and deliberate on the implementation matrix for the 32-point communique arising from the Conference,” she continued highlighting that working through sector streams had proven to be quiet effective.
Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor thanked the Council of Governors for choosing Eldoret to host this year’s devolution conference and appreciated the County Planning Committee for their commitment in ensuring that the region was ready to host the Conference.
“The infrastructural upgrades and development initiatives undertaken have undoubtedly left an indelible mark in our County. I am optimistic that Uasin Gishu will soon be declared Kenya’s fifth city even as we continue to work towards ensuring efficient and quality service delivery to our people,” noted Eng. Barorot.
Making her remarks Senator Catherine Muma who represented the Speaker of the Senate, underscored the need to focus on the legislative agenda and review the legislations and policies that continue to claw back on devolution.
“As the primary implementers of devolved governance, County Governments and particularly County Assemblies, should be at the fore front in driving the legislative reforms conversation. Further, there is need for strengthened relations and collaboration between all actors in the devolution space including both tiers of government and the Senate to ensure the realization of the promise of devolution for all Kenyans,” added Senator Muma.
The end of the Devolution Conference 2023 marks yet another remarkable milestone in the quest for attaining the objects of devolution as envisaged in the Constitution. As we forge on into the next decade of devolution, let us all strive to become advocates for devolution.

The Council of Governors (CoG) held the 2nd edition of the Devolution Warrior Awards themed “Celebrating 1o years of Devolution” during a lavish dinner held on Wednesday, 16th August 2023. The gala was held on the sidelines of the Devolution Conference 2023 that took place from 15th to 19th August 2023 in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County.
The Devolution Warrior Awards seeks to acknowledge and applaud the efforts of individuals and organizations that have championed, promoted and protected devolution and leveraged its potential to bring about positive change. These awards not only recognize excellence but also inspire others to actively participate in devolution and make a lasting impact on their communities.
This year’s Warrior Awards witnessed an array of remarkable nominees and winners, all of whom demonstrated exceptional dedication and innovation in local governance and advancing the cause of devolution. The Awards came in seven categories namely: Simba, Ndovu, Kifaru, Nyati, Chui, Njiwa and Tai.
“I wish to recognize the great efforts of the multi-agency committee that undertook a rigorous nomination and evaluation process to deliver these awards. It is my sincere hope that the nominees will treasure and uphold the award given to them and become greater advocates of devolution,” said CoG Chairperson Anne Waiguru while addressing guests during the Gala dinner.
The Simba Award was conferred to former Bomet Governor Isaac Ruto who served as the first Chairperson of the CoG and is currently a Commissioner with the Judicial Service Commission. Adah Omedi and Vihiga County , who were shortlisted for the award, were named the 1st and 2nd runners – up respectively. Integrated Development facility, an NGO that works towards achieving a citizen led public participation process in governance, emerged as the winner for the Ndovu award with former Makueni Governor Prof. Kivutha Kibwana coming in second position while Shee Kupi Shee took the 2nd Runner up position. Ms. Jedidah Wanyeki, an environmental and climate change activist and Founder of Greens of Africa Foundation bagged the Kifaru Award with Murang’a County emerging as the 1st runner-up while MESPT came in third position. The Nyati Award saw Santa Sebastian, a community development practitioner and Founder, Youth and Women Advocacy Network declared the winner while the 1st and 2nd runners-up went to Safaricom and the National Council for Law Reporting respectively. The Chui Award went to CREAW which champions the actualization of women and girl’s rights and social justice with Loroo Esekon Emmanuel emerging as the 1st runner-up while Population Service Kenya was the 2nd runners up. The Njiwa Award went to Act! which focuses on peace building and enhancing the capacity and resilience of individuals and communities with Dr. Charles Lochodo Malcom and Kiunga Youth emerging as the 1st and 2nd runners-up respectively. Nation Media Group won the media award dubbed Tai with Cape Media coming in 2nd position and Royal Media Services in 3rd position.
“I challenge all of us to continue championing devolution in our respective jurisdictions to ensure that both the present and future generations enjoy its benefits,” CoG CEO Mary Mwiti noted while appreciating the contributions of all stakeholders towards safeguarding devolution in Kenya thus far.

Thrilling sports action, including a 5km fun race, marked the start of the Devolution Conference 2023 in Eldoret where key stakeholders converged to take stock of the success of devolved governments. The race formed part of pre-conference activities which included, a Tree growing exercise at the Eldoret Arboretum and football matches held at the Kipchoge Keino Stadium.
The 5 km race attracted over 2, 000 participants from all over the Country. The Council of Governors (CoG) was represented by Council Vice Chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi, Governor of Wajir County, Governor George Natembeya of Trans Nzoia County and Governor Jonathan Bii of Uasin Gishu County.
In the men’s Category, Peter Mwaniki emerged the winner after a 15:12.2 run to the finish line ahead of Weldon Langat and Charles Rotich who took third place. Mwaniki is the Nairobi Marathon 10Km Champion and Belgut 10km Champion. Speaking following his victory, Peter Mwaniki noted that the race was tough and had attracted very competitive athletes.
“I wish to thank the CoG for organizing this race. This was a great race and it has provided a platform for us athletes to get some exposure as we grow the young talent in the region,” Mwaniki said.
The 2017 World Cross Country Champion Irene Cheptai, won the Devolution Conference 5km race. She crossed the line after clocking 17:04.6 ahead of Sophia Jepchirchir who clocked 17:05.5 and Winnie Boinett was third, marking 17:16.1. Cheptai, who came in from injury, was using the race as a training ground ahead of the Copenhagen Half Marathon slated for September 17 in Denmark.
“I am so happy to have won despite the competition from the other athletes. I thank the Council of Governors for organizing this race and appreciating the talent that we have in this region,” she said.
The football matches saw the Intergovernmental Technical Relations Committee (IGTRC) go toe-to-toe against the County Government of Nyandarua where IGTRC suffered a 6-0 humiliation. The CoG later faced the Senate with the Senate bagging a 3 – nil win, marking the second time the Senate has won against the Council.
Speaking during the award ceremony, Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba said the Pre-Conference games are important as the Country takes a trajectory towards monetizing talent through the ambitious plan dubbed Talanta Hela.
Chapa Bet CEO George Omondi on his part said that the partnership with the CoG underlines their commitment to nurturing local sports, fostering emerging talent and championing grassroots initiatives that embody the spirit of community and collaboration.
Governors and stakeholders also took part in the tree growing activity that saw over 300 trees grown in the Eldoret Arboretum. The activity marked a culmination of a tree-growing exercise that saw over 7.4 million trees grown across the 47 Counties since March 2023 as part of the Presidential program to grow 15 billion trees by 2032. President William Ruto, who officially opened the Devolution Conference, also planted a tree and unveiled the Wall of Fame, a landmark that was an initiative of the Council of Governors to celebrate and immortalize the legacy of our men and women who fly the Kenyan Flag high in the sports and athletics arena.

The Council of Governors (CoG) held the much anticipated Devolution Conference 2023 from 15th – 19th August 2023, at Eldoret Sports Club, Uasin Gishu County. The Conference which marked a decade since the coming into force of sub-national governments was themed: 10 Years of Devolution: The Present and the Future and Sub-theme: Driving Transformation from the local level: County Governments as the Centre of economic development.
The Biennial conference marshaled by the Governors’ Council in collaboration with key partners spanning the many sectors was officially opened by President William Ruto. It brought together various stakeholders including National and Sub-National Governments, private sector, academia, civil societies, development partners, devolution enthusiasts and over 10,000 local and international delegates. The forum provided a platform to candidly evaluate the hits and misses since the introduction of the devolved system of governance in Kenya and offer responsive and concrete solutions, including policy, legislation and administrative action that will strengthen devolution for the next decade.
While making his remarks, the President lauded County Governments for their contributions towards driving the Bottom Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) witnessed across various sectors particularly health, agriculture, trade, manufacturing and urban development. He further noted that the devolved functions still being discharged by the National Government will be transferred to Counties by mid-October.
“I gave a commitment to ensure that Counties shareable revenue is disbursed to Counties in a timely and predictable manner and within the confines of the law to enable them execute their functions and empower them as stewards of socio-economic development at the grass root level. Although devolution is a two tier government affair, it should in practice reach the lowest and smallest possible units,” President Ruto added.
CoG Chairperson Anne Waiguru took to the podium to highlight the key achievements County Governments have made since 2013. She listed misalignment of policies and laws, slow implementation of intergovernmental decisions and ineffective management of human capital as some of the factors undermining devolution.
“As a good student of the Bible I want to thank you [President Ruto] immensely on behalf of my colleague governors for the end-of-year disbursements, which were on time. Counties have also received their dues for the month of July. This is the first time, in the history of devolution, that disbursements have been made on time,” the Council Chairperson said terming the timely disbursements as a testament to the commitment of the National Government to support devolution.
The Devolution Conference featured rich discussions on topical issues including effective service delivery; digitalization; innovation and performance management; affirmative action; good governance and accountability; housing and urban development; health service delivery; positioning Counties as trade and investments destinations and; exploring the untapped potential in the blue economy sector.
During the Conference, the President, flanked by Governors and other dignitaries, also launched two publications: the Devolution Book highlighting the journey of devolution in Kenya and; the County Bankable Investment handbook which outlines the immense trade and investment opportunities across the Counties.
In addition, the Conference offered a platform for the local business community to showcase the rich culture and diversity of products Uasin Gishu and neighboring Counties have to offer. It also provided an opportunity for over 500 Exhibitors and youth to showcase their products and innovations. Nakuru County won the best exhibition award with Kiambu County and Kitui County coming in the 2nd and 1st position respectively.
While welcoming delegates to Uasin Gishu, Governor Jonathan Bii enumerated the strides the County has made in improving the lives of its citizens and enhancing service delivery, adding that Eldoret town had received a major infrastructural upgrade in preparation for the Conference.
“As we engage, let us continue to foster the spirit of devolution to realize our forefathers' dreams and aspirations and secure a brighter future for generations to come,” said Governor Bii.
Ten years on, the journey of devolution in Kenya is indeed one fraught with highs and lows which have been surmounted through dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders. Kenya has proven to be a resilient economy despite the disruptions occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic, changes in weather patterns and prolonged drought. Similarly, Counties have made remarkable strides in improving service delivery in the devolved sectors and promoting the adoption of climate-smart technologies and solutions that can create sustainable and resilient communities.
“Today’s seeds are tomorrow’s fruits. Look back on where you are coming from as you plan the future,” CoG Vice Chairperson Ahmed Abdullahi noted, adding significant progress had been made in implementing resolutions arising from previous Conferences. Notably, various interventions have been undertaken in the areas of environment and climate change, agriculture, trade, innovation, blue economy and disaster risk management.
CoG appreciates the Devolution Conference Steering Committee Co-Chaired by the Vice-Chair of the Council, H.E Ahmed Abdulahi and the Speaker of the Senate; the State Department of Devolution; County Assemblies Forum, all partners and stakeholders who attended the Conference and the secretariat led by the CEO Mary Mwiti for their support and dedication towards ensuring the fruition of the Conference.
Asanteni sana!

The Council of Governors (CoG), committed to the principles of information and knowledge sharing and fostering effective governance, recently concluded a successful workshop aimed at building the capacities of Knowledge Management Champions from 30th July to 2nd August 2023 in Nakuru County.

The workshop had three central aims: to enhance the competencies of the Knowledge Management Champions, reinforce the critical role of the Maarifa Centre as a primary source of knowledge sharing, and stimulate effective collaboration among Counties for the dissemination of success stories and best practices.

Post-workshop feedback was effusively positive, with participants expressing an enthusiasm to apply their newly-acquired insights and skills. "This workshop offered not only a deepened understanding of the Maarifa Centre but also illuminated a clear path for integrating the Maarifa agenda within our Counties," shared one of the champions.

Other participants voiced newfound clarity on distinguishing between good practice, success stories, and best practices, which they believe will significantly boost their future knowledge management efforts in their respective departments.

Additionally, the workshop provided invaluable insights on how Knowledge Management can be best positioned within Counties, underscoring how the Maarifa Centre's resources can be strategically utilized to illuminate County achievements. The Champions, filled with a renewed enthusiasm, were eager to explore approaches for securing buy-in from their respective Counties to embrace the importance of knowledge management.

The Champions expressed a collective determination to advocate for their respective Counties, with an emphasis on showcasing the success stories that have a tangible impact on their communities across various sectors. The eye-opening exposure to the accomplishments of other Counties that have yet to be documented and disseminated served as a testament to the achievements of devolution and the leadership therein.

Significant emphasis was placed on the importance of peer-to-peer learning, a process that provides opportunities for Counties to glean insights from each other. It was acknowledged that many Counties have implemented remarkably successful projects and initiatives. By sharing these success stories, Counties can stimulate their growth and attract investments and partnerships, thus contributing to their economic and social development.

Aligned with the CoG's collaboration with the World Bank through the Financing Locally Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) Program, this initiative underscores the role of local leadership in

driving climate action. It also focuses on equipping counties with the tools and knowledge to address climate change effectively within their jurisdictions. The Champions will play a crucial role in documenting best practices and successes of the program, fostering a conducive learning environment for others.

As a way forward, the Champions highlighted the need to institutionalize knowledge management at the County level and called for the allocation of dedicated departments with competent personnel to manage all knowledge resources and assets. This workshop marks a step towards this goal, and we look forward to the positive impacts that these Champions will make in their respective Counties

Governors want the National Government to desist from encroaching on devolved functions and instead, work in collaboration with all stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of devolution in Kenya.

Speaking during a full Council meeting held on 31st July 2023 at the CoG offices, Council of Governors (CoG) Chair H.E Anne Waiguru singled out markets, housing and lighting, water and provision of fertilizer and seeds as some of the proposed projects the National Government is undertaking in total disregard of County functions as stipulated in the Fourth Schedule of the Constitution.

“The Markets Development Program should be implemented by the respective County Governments through the conditional grants framework,” Waiguru said, calling for the immediate suspension of the advertisement and rollout of the markets development project in the Counties, until consensus is reached on the modalities of its implementation.

The Governors hailed the courts for protecting devolution, lauding the declaration which termed the establishment of the Kenya Tissue and Transplant Authority via Legal Notice No 142 of 2022 illegal.

“The court’s decision is a great win for devolution and for the health sector. We further call upon the Senate to initiate amendments to the State Corporations Act, 2010 to ensure that it aligns to the devolved system of governance,” noted the Chair, CoG Health Committee H.E Muthomi Njuki.

The Council of Governors agreed to reconsider its engagement with the Ministries responsible for Health, Agriculture, Water, Lands, Public Works, Housing and Urban Development, if the continued infringement of devolved functions continues.

The devolved system of governance is anchored on legislation. H.E Mutula Kilonzo Junior, Chair, CoG Legal Committee on his part noted that the State Department of Devolution had reviewed the County Government Act, 2012 without the involvement of County Governments, a move that would significantly impact service delivery in the devolved units.

“However, efforts to review the Act are a step in the right direction and we urge the State Department to immediately put in place a multiagency taskforce to comprehensively review the County Governments Act, 2012 to address all the issues that have emerged in the course of the implementation of the Act,” he added.

The devolution journey has had its challenges but has also recorded great strides in service delivery. County Governments have achieved remarkable milestones in various sectors over

the last decade. These will be celebrated at the Devolution Conference 2023 that will be held in Uasin Gishu County, Eldoret Sports Club from 15th to 19th August 2023.

Governor Waiguru highlighted that there would be pre-conference activities such as athletics and football which would provide an opportunity to meet and interact with the members of the public ahead of the conference, adding that the County Governments have so far grown 7.3 million trees in a bid to support the efforts of climate action.

The Council of Governors (CoG) in collaboration with its partners, is ready to host the Devolution Conference 2023 scheduled to take place from 15th – 19th August 2023, in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County. The theme of the Conference is: 10 Years of Devolution: The Present and the Future and Sub-theme: Driving Transformation from the local level: County governments as the Centre of economic development.

The Devolution Conference 2023 Steering Committee led by the CoG Vice Chair, H.E Ahmed Abdullahi on 28th July 2023 held a meeting to evaluate the state of preparedness of Uasin Gishu County to host the upcoming Conference. In attendance was the Host Governor H.E Jonathan Bii and his Deputy H.E Eng. John Barorot, PS State Department of Devolution Teresia Mbwika, Host Senator Hon. Jackson Mandago who is the pioneer governor and served for two consecutive terms, the County Assemblies Forum and the Uasin Gishu Business Community.

Addressing the press after presiding over the meeting, CoG Vice Chair noted that significant progress had been made in readiness for the historic event and the report submitted indicates that the infrastructural development is almost complete.

“I want to thank everyone who was involved for their commitment and the work they have put in and in particular, our host governor and his team. They have done a great job in preparation for the conference,” he added, highlighting that the Conference would bring together approximately 10,000 local and international delegates.

Uasin Gishu Governor H.E Jonathan Bii on his part further noted that the Conference would offer numerous opportunities, especially for the business community, the people of Uasin Gishu and the North Rift Economic Bloc (NOREB) counties.

The office of the Deputy President and the National Government reiterated their commitment to support the host County Government.

“Multiple departments of the National Government are on the ground to ensure work is done across different sectors for the success of this important conference,” said PS Mbaika emphasizing the need for consultation and cooperation by both levels of Government to guarantee the success of the event.

The County Assembly Forum, which is also a member of the steering committee has prepared its members who represent wards in the Counties to attend the 4-day conference. This year’s Conference will offer an opportunity for Counties to share experiences of devolution for the last 10 years of its execution, look into the successes and challenges and find ways to deepen and grow devolution.

In addition, it will feature riveting discussions on matters devolved governance, exhibitions and displays of innovations across various sectors among others. A communique arising from

the just concluded Children’s Devolution Conference 2023, will be read out to all stakeholders including delegates and decision makers, during the Official opening of the August Conference.

The Council of Governors welcomes all invited guests and delegates to the Devolution Conference 2023.

See you there!

The Council of Governors in collaboration with stakeholders, organized the Children’s Devolution Conference, 2023 themed “Empowering Young Voices: A Decade of Devolution and the Future of Children in Kenya” from 3rd - 7th July 2023 at the M-pesa Foundation, Kiambu County. This provided a platform for children to reflect on their experiences in the last 10 years of devolution for enhanced service delivery that’s responsive to children’s needs.

The Conference was a precursor to the Devolution Conference, 2023 to be held from 15th – 19th August, 2023 at the Eldoret Sports Club in Uasin Gishu County. Further, it was an opportunity for the Children of Kenya to add their voice to the discussions that will take place during the August 2023 Conference.

Article 53 of the Constitution guarantees children basic rights. Kenya has ratified international treaties to protect children from abuse and neglect. However, a report on the status of children rights published by humanium, shows that children in Kenya still face challenges such as sexual violence, lack access to healthcare services while those in school have to bear with poor infrastructure and congested spaces. This has hindered their progress and development, denying them their fundamental rights and freedom.

Sustained participation of children and young adults in governance seeks to entrench child-responsive service delivery in the service delivery structures. Speaking at the Conference, the Council of Governors Vice Chair, assured the children on the importance of their involvement in decision-making in Kenya.

“The ideas you will share will play a key role in shaping the next course of action in Devolution. Children’s voices are treasured, a beacon of hope that guides us towards a brighter, more inclusive, compassionate Kenya,” said Governor Ahmed Abdullahi.

“Devolution empowers communities including Children to be part of shaping their destinies. Your dreams and aspirations matter and that’s why we are here to listen, to learn, and to act on your ideas,” added the Vice Chair.

Basic Education Principal Secretary Dr. Belio Kipsang reiterated the importance of stronger intergovernmental relations to ensure the future of the Children is secured.

“I wish to appreciate and acknowledge the critical role the County Governments play in Early Childhood Education. County Governments are making a difference by building a confident future. We shall continue to work with the County Governments and the Children of Kenya to

continuously improve and develop policies that will positively impact the Children, ensure we equip our teachers, and ensure all the necessary learning tools are available for our children,” said Dr. Kipsang.

46% of Kenya’s population is below the age of 15 years with about 86% of this population attending primary school. Speaking during the meeting, H.E Kimani Wamatangi, emphasized the need for proper planning by the National and County Governments, to ensure holistic growth and development of Children.

The Conference brought together students from the 47 Counties; 2 primary school learners per County, 2 secondary school learners per County, 1 learner with disability per County and 2o learners from ECDE Centers from the Host County. National Council for Persons with Disability CEO Mr. Hassan Harun commended the Council of Governors for organizing the Conference.

“I wish to congratulate the Council of Governors for convening the most inclusive conference ever held in Kenya. I have seen differently-abled persons from all over the Country in the meeting” said Mr. Harun.

Nyeri Governor H.E Mutahi Kahiga confirmed this while delivering his address to the Children noting that the Children had elected a differently-abled child as their Governor during their mock election.

“I thank you children of Kenya for leading by example by conducting a democratic mock election and giving every candidate an equal opportunity. Through that mock election, you managed to elect a Governor who is differently abled and his Deputy who is a woman,” said Governor Kahiga. He further reiterated that inclusivity is very important and must be mainstreamed at both the National and County level.

The Conference culminated with a communique which will be submitted to H.E President William Ruto by the Children’s Governor and Deputy Governor on 16th August 2023 during the official opening of the Devolution Conference. Further, the communique will be part of the Conference resolutions that will be taken up by different stakeholders for implementation.

Council of Governors (CoG) Chair, H.E Anne Waiguru delivered the 10th State of Devolution Address (SODA) on 30th June 2023 at Safari Park hotel, taking stock of the achievements, challenges, and opportunities for devolution in Kenya.
Making her address, the CoG Chair highlighted County Governments’ achievements across various devolved sectors including finance, health, education, urban governance, roads and energy, agriculture, blue economy, natural resource management, trade and investment, tourism and wildlife.
“In a bid to boost access to health services at the lowest level, County Governments have recruited approximately 107,839 Community Health promoters (CHPs), whose contributions have significantly increased levels of immunizations amongst children in communities,” noted the Chair adding that the results of healthcare investments in the Counties were evident as indicated by the statistics.
The 2023 Economic survey report affirms that County Governments’ interventions in agriculture have been invaluable. This includes mechanization, increased inputs access for farmers, distribution of irrigation kits, seeds and seedling distribution and extension services. “In the 2022 school year, there has been notable growth in enrolment in pre-primary education, vocational education and training programmes due to increased incentives and investments by County Governments,” reads the SODA report.
Additionally, notable gains have been accomplished thus far including: enactment of a Disaster Risk Management Act in 26 Counties; enactment of the Facility Improvement Financing (FIF) Act in 27 Counties; 15 Counties have approved their County Spatial Plans and; 26 Counties have automated business registration services and licensing processes making it easier for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to formalize their operations.
Giving her remarks, State Department of Devolution Principal Secretary Teresia Mbaika, reiterated the commitment of the National Government in ensuring that devolution thrives and is entrenched in the very heart of governance system.
‘‘County Governments have provided communities with opportunities to participate in local governance and development process through public participation,’’ she said acknowledging the role of devolved units in assisting National Government to deliver vital services such as healthcare, early childhood education and agricultural extension services.
Ambassador of European Union to Kenya Ms. Henriette Geiger, who also represented the Devolution Donor Working Group, on her part noted that County Governments had now come of age.
“There is need for deliberate action by all stakeholders to ensure that the promise of devolution is realized for all Kenyans,” she said.
10 years into the implementation of devolution in Kenya and 60 years since the country gained independence, County Governments have made significant strides in enhancing service delivery to local communities.
As we forge into the next decade of devolution, let us celebrate the milestones, build on the lessons learnt and leverage on our collaborative efforts to steer the devolution agenda in Kenya to greater heights.

Kenya made history on Monday 26th June 2023 by becoming the first East African country and the third in Africa to host the National High-Level dialogue on health. Over 500 delegates from across the region converged for the 3-day conference to address pressing issues on domestic resource mobilization for sustainable health financing. The dialogue comes against the backdrop of the collective commitment made by Africa's heads of state in the Abuja meeting in 2001 and the 2019 Africa Leadership Meeting to increase health budget allocation and ensure prudent use of health resources.
During the official opening, the Prime Cabinet Secretary Hon. Musalia Mudavadi, on behalf of President William Ruto, emphasized the government's commitment to increasing domestic funding for health noting the need to raise more revenue by strengthening the tax systems, ensuring fair and equitable tax laws.
“The government remains committed to investing in digitization to improve efficiencies and generate necessary revenue for allocation to priority sectors including healthcare infrastructure, essential medicines and equipment, and skilled healthcare professionals,” added the CS.
Council of Governors (CoG) Chair H.E Anne Waiguru reiterated the County Governments’ willingness to work with the National Government to implement the President’s health agenda. Currently, Counties invest about 30% of their total budgets in health - evidence of their commitment to the achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
“County Governments are steadfast to providing the highest quality of health services and maximizing opportunities for disease prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and care. In partnership with the National Government, we hope to ensure that flow of funds to public health facilities is timely, predictable and reliable to better meet the health needs of the populations they serve,” said Governor Waiguru.
“I commend County Governments for their continuous efforts of ensuring that there is increased County budget allocations in the health sector from 13.5% to 28.2% between 2013 and 2022, reflecting their dedication to prioritizing healthcare,” noted the health Cabinet Secretary Ms. Susan Nakhumicha.
The National dialogue on health financing comes days after the high-level engagement between the Ministry of Health and County Governments which saw County Governments sign Intergovernmental Partnerships Agreements (IPAs) to facilitate the implementation of the National Equipment Support to Counties (NESC), formerly known as Managed Equipment Services.
The forum, held on 14th June 2023, deliberated on matters domestic resource mobilization, emerging issues in the health sector including Community Health Promoters (CHPs), Primary Care Networks (PCNs) and Universal Health Coverage, social protection and unbundling of functions.
County Governments and the Ministry of Health resolved to strengthen intergovernmental collaboration to address key sector issues in health and social protection. In this regard, it was resolved among others that: a joint facility assessment to be undertaken across the Country to inform the number of primary networks to be established; CoG to sensitize the 20 County Assemblies who are yet to pass the model Facility Improvement Financing Bill developed by the CoG, Ministry of Health and Health policy stakeholders, to fast-track the passage of the Bill in the next 2 months and; a technical team comprising of the CoG, State Department of Social Protection, UNICEF, WFP and sector partners to establish a framework to institutionalize Social Protection programmes at the County Level.