The linkage between county planning and national development

Former President Mwai Kibaki shows Kenyans the new constitution after its promulgation at a public function witnessed by the nation at Uhuru Park, Nairobi. [Photo/Standard]

Kenya promulgated a new Constitution in 2010 with devolution being among the key gains that promised progress for the nation. This heralded a new era of hope with Article 174 of the Constitution outlining the objects of devolution that included giving powers of self-governance to the people, enhancing their participation in decision making, promoting economic development and ensuring equitable sharing of resources.

Devolution brought billions of annual Exchequer transfers to counties whose utilisation was defined by provisions that required counties to spend a minimum of 30 per cent on development. With these progressive safeguards, it was expected as a matter of fact that Kenya’s development outlook would improve considerably.