IMF praises progress made by Kenya’s fledgling devolved system

Mauro Mecagni (right), International Monitory Funds (IMF) Mission Chief for Kenya, exchange greetings with Justin Muturi (left), National Assembly Speaker, as Senate Speaker Ekwe Ethuro looks on when he paid Parliament a courtesy call, last week. [PHOTO: BONIFACE OKENDO/STANDARD]

Kenya: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has given its stamp of approval on progress made by Kenya in implementing a devolved system of government. This is despite reports from the Controller of Budget citing wastage in public funds at the county levels and noisy supremacy battles between the Senate and County Governors.

“Devolution is a major undertaking that holds great promise for the Kenyans . It provides the opportunity to foster inclusive growth, increase job creation and address inequality. While considerable progress has been made during the first year of devolution, accountability, compliance with the legal framework and implementation capacity need to be further strengthened,” said the IMF.