Devolution dream achievable, if we strengthen governance, cut waste

The sixth devolution conference goes down this week and marks six years of the devolved system of governance in Kenya. The 2010 Constitution gifted us 47 devolved governments, which have revolutionalised governance and resource allocation in a big way. Indeed, Kenya has been transformed in a way never seen before. Nairobi, the hitherto seat of power and influence, no longer has a monopoly of vital resources and infrastructure. All the 47 counties, some previously seriously marginalised, now get their fair share of funds.

With a governor and a county assembly, the devolved units can now decide their development trajectory and prioritise their own projects. Six years on, there are vital lessons from the implementation of  devolution. There are spectacular successes and notable failures as well. Chief among these is the realisation that modest resources, put at the disposal of prudent managers, can positively transform people’s lives.