News Highlights (292)
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COG LAUNCHES REVAMPED MAARIFA CENTRE WEBSITE DURING INDUCTION OF COUNTY DIRECTORS OF COMUNICATION AND GOVERNORS PRESS
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The Council of Governors (COG) led by H.E. Wisley Rotich Chair, ICT and Knowledge Management Committee held an induction for the County Directors of Communication and Governors’ press from 30th January to 3rd February 2023 in Mombasa.
While making his remarks during the official opening of the induction workshop and Launch of Maarifa Centre, COG Chief Whip H.E. Stephen Sang noted that thanks to devolution, there was a significant improvement in access to government services at the local level and increased public participation in policy-making, planning processes, and development projects.
“I would also like to commend the COG for their good work, especially on the revamping of the Maarifa Centre website that we are launching today. The website will enable Counties to promote the documentation and dissemination of County best practices, success stories, and devolution solutions,” added H.E. Stephen Sang.
Also in attendance was the CEO of Media Council of Kenya (MCK) Mr. David Omwoyo Omwoyo, Head of Corporate, Nation Media Group- Mr. Clifford Machoka, AMREF Deputy County Director, Mr. Gilbert Wangalwa.
The Induction saw County Directors of Communication and Governors’ press equipped with knowledge on topical issues including sector legislations and policies such as the Kenya Information and Communication Act, Data Protection Act, and County Governments Act, 2012; access to information as a function of Public Communication in the County; setting up of a County communication department; establishment of a strong and consistent County Brand; development of a communication strategy; media relations; crisis communication and; digital media.
Speaking during the Inaugural ICT and Knowledge Management committee meeting held on 30th January 2023 preceding the induction, the Committee Chair H.E. Wisley Rotich called upon the technical teams to identify specific areas that require urgent intervention, especially on matters of Knowledge sharing and providing digital solutions in Counties.
“I assure you that we will work together to mobilize County Governments, development partners, and the private sector to join our quest for digitizing Health, Finance, and procurement processes.” said the Chair.
H.E. Irungu Kangata who was unanimously elected as the ICT Committee’s Vice Chair further emphasized the need for peer-to-peer learning both locally and beyond. to enable Counties to acquire insights on the automation of government services as well as knowledge management.
During the aforementioned inaugural meeting for the ICT and Knowledge management committee, the COG signed an MoU with the MCK aimed at strengthening collaboration between County Governments, COG, and MCK. Key areas of focus include the creation of joint initiatives to help improve relations between County Governments and journalists; collaborative capacity building of County staff on media and communications; and support to the COG Maarifa Centre to make it a key information resource among media and journalists.
“I want to encourage journalists to report on the positive results and best practices in the Counties to inform citizens about the work being done. As a Council, we remain committed to providing a secure environment for journalists to carry out their responsibilities effectively. I urge the media to utilize the readily accessible and authentic information on devolution available through Maarifa Centre.” Added H.E. Wesley Rotich.
The induction meeting resolved among others that: County directors ensure they have a knowledge management champion in their departments; County directors maintain good relationships with both local and national media to ensure that best practices and success stories are told; County directors to ensure effective branding of their Counties to attract investors and ensure websites and social media pages are up to date.
In the same breadth, Mr. Aloice Ager was elected Chair of the County Directors of Communication caucus with Ms. Carol Nderi as the Vice Chair. Ms. Hawa Kala will serve as the Treasurer while Ms. Faith Seroney will be the caucus secretary.
GOVERNORS DEMAND KSH425B EQUITABLE SHARE AT 19TH ORDINARY SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL BUDGET AND ECONOMIC COUNCIL (IBEC)
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The Council of Governors is demanding Ksh.425 billion in Counties’ equitable share for the FY 2023/24, up from the current Ksh.370 billion, to ensure the smooth running of operations and enhanced service delivery in Counties.
“While we are alive to the current economic situation in the country we propose that Counties be allocated ksh.425 billion to enable them effectively execute their functions and resolve the challenges affecting devolved units”, noted the COG Chair H.E. Anne Waiguru, during the 19th Ordinary Session of the Intergovernmental Budget and Economic Council (IBEC) held on Thursday, 26th January 2023 at the Kenya School of Government.
The meeting chaired by the Deputy President H.E. Rigathi Gachagua brought together representatives from the National Treasury, the Commission on Revenue Allocation, the Office of the Controller of Budget (CoB), and the Judicial Service Commission among others. Top on the agenda was: the division of revenue between National and County Governments for the FY 23/24; the status of Counties’ pending bills; own source revenue collection in Counties; the reconversion of the road maintenance levy fund and funding for vocational training institutions; conditional grants; funding of national government UHC workers in Counties considering lapsing of contracts in the current FY; Counties wage bill; the 2023 Budget Policy Statement(BPS) and the Medium-term Debt Strategy Paper.
Speaking to the press after the meeting H.E. Rigathi Gachugua noted that the parties had not reached a final agreement on the equitable share of the revenue for Counties adding that a committee had been established to advise on the amount of revenue to be allocated to Counties. The Committee comprised members from the COG, CRA, and National Treasury.
This comes even as the Chair of COG Finance and Economic Affairs committee H.E. Fernandes Barasa protested the Ksh.380 billion allocated to Counties by the National Treasury in its Budget Policy Statement. CRA has proposed an allocation of Ksh.407 billion in equitable share.
“The revenue in the 2023 BPS is projected to grow by 17% (Ksh.374 billion). The 47 Counties are set to receive a paltry Ksh.10 billion increment of revenue despite being the entities that spearhead the execution of devolved functions. As a Council, we ask that resources follow functions”, noted H.E. Fernandes Barasa while addressing members of the press.
Out of the Ksh.3.641 trillion National Budget for FY 23/24, Counties will receive Ksh.380 billion which represents 10.4% of the National Budget. The health sector, one of the fully devolved functions, is set to receive Ksh.148.293 billion, an increase of Ksh.25.774 billion from the previous Ksh.122.519 billion in FY 22/23. Similarly, the environment, water, and natural resources sector will receive Ksh.122.877 billion, an increase of Ksh.15.699 billion from the previous Ksh.107.178 billion in FY 22/23.
Controller of Budget Margaret Nyakang’o in her report cited low own-source revenue collection, diversion of funds for payment of pending bills to other activities, delays by the National Treasury in the disbursement of funds to Counties and approval of supplementary budgets as some of the main reasons for accumulation of Counties’ pending bills.
So far, 27 Counties have received their November 2022 allocations. 20 Counties are owed Ksh.14.66 billion for November allocations while all Counties are yet to receive their December 2022 and January 2023 allocations amounting to Ksh.29.6 billion and Ksh.31.45 billion respectively. The total outstanding balance amounts to Ksh.75.71 billion.
In line with the resolutions arising from the IBEC meeting held on 26th January 2023, the Council led by the Vice Chair H.E. Ahmed Abdullahi on Wednesday, 1st February 2023 held extensive discussions with the CRA and National Treasury on the division of revenue for the 22/23 FY at Movenpick hotel in Westlands. Due to the stalemate arising from this meeting, the COG later met with Deputy President H.E Rigathi Gachagua at Harambee Annex for an extraordinary session of IBEC to further discuss the matter. Consultations on the division of sharable revenue will continue as we await the tabling of the Division of Revenue Bill in Parliament.
COG CONVENES MEETING WITH KEY STAKEHOLDERS IN THE LANDS, HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT SECTORS TO DISCUSS STRATEGIC ISSUES AFFECTING THE SECTORS
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The Council of Governors Lands, Housing and Urban Development Committee convened a consultative meeting from 23rd to 24th January 2023 with key stakeholders including the Ministry of Lands, Public Works, Housing and Urban Development, the National Land Commission, Intergovernmental Relations Technical Committee, Development Partners, Professional Associations and Registration Bodies to discuss strategic issues affecting the sectors.
The meeting, held in Mombasa, deliberated on: Land Governance and Spatial Planning; Urban Governance, financing and management; Review of Sector Policies and Laws; Management of the housing function; ongoing and proposed programmes and projects in the sectors.
Addressing members of the press, the Chairperson, COG Lands, Housing and Urban Development Committee H.E. Prof. Anyang Nyong’o underscored the need to ensure inclusive and sustainable urban development that spurs growth and creates resilient communities. “The Future is Urban”, he stated.
“We need to conduct an overhaul of the policies and legislations in the sector that claw back on the spirit of devolution to ensure they are responsive to the existent challenges and in alignment with the Constitution of Kenya 2010”, noted H.E Prof. Nyong’o. He singled out among others the Survey Act, Land Control Act, District and Provinces Act, Physical and Land Use Planning Act, and Valuation for Rating Act.
CS Zacharia Mwangi Njeru, Ministry of Lands, Public Works, Housing and Urban Development on his part reiterated the commitment of the National Government to work in collaboration with County Governments to create an enabling legislative environment for the sector and roll out the digitization of land records across all the Counties. Further, He affirmed the need to register and issue title deeds for public land owned by the government.
“We are keen on working closely with the COG, to unlock issues regarding Land, Housing, and Urban Development. I request that we have regular meetings to track the implementation of the resolutions, that we will develop and agree on during this forum”, stated the Cabinet Secretary.
The meeting emphasized the need to create a framework/MOU to guide the procedures of identifying land owned by County Governments and land swapping to facilitate the rollout of the Affordable Housing Programme. The CS stated that "a team from the Ministry has been sent to all the 47 County Governments to assess the submitted land."
It was resolved among others that: both levels of government form a joint task team to review all sector laws and policies; the Ministry of Lands and Urban planning form a task force comprising of COG, the National Treasury, the Attorney General’s office, and other stakeholders to develop a concept paper and advice on the establishment of the urban development fund and; County Governments to submit an inventory of all illegally allocated public land through the COG to the Ministry of Lands.
In addition, it was agreed that County Governments shall prioritize the allocation of budgets for spatial planning and regularization of allocation of public land; County Governments and the Ministry of Lands shall fast-track planning, surveying, and registration of land in urban areas; and; the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development and the COG shall establish an intergovernmental forum to discuss matters of national concern in the sectors.
The Consultative meeting was followed by an induction for the County Executive Committee Members (CECMs) responsible for land, housing, and urban development which took place from 25th to 28th February 2023 at the same venue.
COG HOLDS AGRICULTURE AND BLUE ECONOMY SECTOR INDUCTION FOR COUNTY OFFICERS AMIDST LAUNCH OF NAVCDP
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The Council of Governors led by H.E. Rt. Hon. Kenneth Lusaka Chair, Agriculture, Livestock and Cooperatives committee and H.E. Issa Timamy, Chair Blue Economy Committee held an induction for the newly appointed County Executive Committee Members (CECMs) and County Chief Officers in charge of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, from 16th to 20th January 2023 in Mombasa.
The meeting was graced by the Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs, Hon. Salim Mvurya, Principal Secretary for Blue Economy, Ms. Betsy Njagi, Principal Secretary for the State Department of Livestock, Mr. Harry Kimtai, and other senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, Development partners including World Bank, Embassy of Sweden in Kenya, and the private sector.
Speaking during the official opening of the Induction, H.E. Rt. Hon. Kenneth Lusaka noted that the induction was indeed timely and crucial in appraising the CECMs and County Chief Officers on emerging issues in the sector, relevant legislative frameworks and their roles as stipulated in the Constitution. “I urge all CECMs and COs to play a leading role in the implementation of programmes in the sector. Let us prioritize projects and programmes that promote sustainable blue economy and agricultural practices that safeguard the environment for the benefit of present and future generations”, he added.
“There is a need for both levels of government to work together to ensure full implementation of sector policies and legislation and improve access to irrigation, agricultural mechanization, and credit for farmers”, added CS Mvurya during a media briefing.
The induction meeting also featured the launch of the National Value Chain Development projects (NAVCDP), a World Bank funded project set to be implemented over the next 5 years in 26 Counties. The project seeks to increase market participation and value addition for target farmers in select value chains in project areas.
Addressing the press on the sidelines of the Blue economy sector induction held on 23rd and 24th January 2023 in Mombasa, H.E. Issa Timamy emphasized the need to align programmes and projects with priority areas in the County to avoid duplication and maximize on available resources.
“Let us work toward creating impactful programmes that will positively transform the lives of our people, create employment and address the real challenges derailing the sector”, said H.E. Issa Timamy noting the huge potential that lies untapped in the sector.
CECMs and County officers in charge of the agriculture and blue economy sectors were inducted on among others: food security; objects of devolution in Kenya; unbundling of the agriculture function; blue economy sector in the County perspective; development partners’ interventions and projects and; sector planning; budgeting and service delivery.
It was resolved that: there is a need for strengthened intergovernmental coordination between the National and County Governments, including co-creating projects and programmes; the State Department for Blue Economy and Fisheries and the Council of Governors to review the Kenya Marine Fisheries and Socio-Economic Development project and the Aquaculture Business Development Program and; the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs to work with the County Governments to establish fishing landing sites and fish markets along the coastline.
GOVERNORS HEALTH COMMITTEE STEPS UP INTERGOVERNMENTAL ENGAGEMENT ON KEY ISSUES
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The Council of Governors (CoG) Health Committee chaired by H.E. Muthomi Njuki held its inaugural retreat at the Swahili Beach Resort in Kwale County themed ‘Stepping up Stakeholders Engagement for Accelerated Universal Health Coverage. The retreat provided a platform to deliberate on various matters in the health sector. The meeting was attended by the Health Committee Governors, the Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Health (MoH) Hon. Susan Nakhumicha and other MoH representatives, representatives from the National Assembly and the Senate, development partners and private sector, the chair of the Intergovernmental Relations Technical Committee (IGRTC), and the Chief Executive Officers of the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) and Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA).
At the commencement of the meeting, the committee unanimously elected H.E. Gladys Wanga, Governor of Homa Bay County as its Vice Chair.
During the meeting, the CoG called for collaboration in order to improve service delivery in the health sector, especially at a time when donor support is declining. Speaking during the event, Health Committee Chair H.E. Muthomi Njuki called for deeper collaboration and consultation between the two levels of government and other partners in the sector to ensure that the transition is well managed.
“The new administration has committed to building on the successes and achievements made in the preceding years to deliver on the devolution dream of bringing services closer to the people. We are also aware that we take up the mantle at a time when as a country we are having serious conversations around the sustainability of health financing in light of the declining donor support. County Governments together with the MoH, therefore, need to initiate the processes of managing the transition in specific health system pillars such as Human Resources for Health among others.” Said Governor Muthomi Njuki.
While addressing the meeting, Health CS underscored her commitment to ensure that there is focused consultation between her Ministry and the County Governments and that she will ensure that Counties are supported to implement the devolved health function.
“Working closely with the Council of Governors, I envision us sustaining the gains made, while quickly and amicably resolving pending and emerging issues within the outlaid consultative frameworks, and sometimes, ad hoc interactions,” said CS Susan Nakhumicha.
Among issues that were discussed at length including the management of over 9000 staff, contracted in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic under the Universal Health Coverage program, who continue to complement the County health staff but whose contracts come to an end in May 2023.
Governors acknowledge the contribution made by the staff and proposed expediting consultations with the MoH on continuation arrangements, financing arrangements, and attendant terms and conditions.
Other key issues deliberated on included: the prioritization and reorganization of models for Community Health Services for greater responsiveness; streamlining of infrastructural and equipment support programs to according better the assignment of health functions to levels of government; fast-tracking implementation of the NHIF and KEMSA reforms; implementation of health facility improvement funds; and completion of the unbundling, costing and transfer of health functions.
The Chair of the Development Partners for Health in Kenya (DPHK) Mr. John Kuehnle lauded Kenya’s health system terming it a success story. Speaking during the meeting, Mr. Kuenhle pledged the support of the development partners towards further improving service delivery in the Country.
NEW EDUCATION CECMS INDUCTED IN BID TO IMPROVE MANAGEMENT OF THE EARLY EDUCATION SECTOR IN COUNTIES
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The Council of Governors (CoG) Education Committee from 21st to 24th November 2022, held an induction workshop for the newly elected County Executive Committee Members in charge of Education (CECMS Education) under the theme, “Towards harmonious and supportive structures for service delivery in pre-primary education and vocational training at County level.” The 3-day induction sought to appraise the CECMs for education on the following topics: bridging the gap in policy development, implementation, and monitoring; enhancing County governance for improved education outcomes; human resource management for education in County Governments; and collaborations and partnerships in education and training provision.
The forum also brought together representatives from the office of the Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Education, State Department of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Government agencies namely: the Kenya Institute of Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA), Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD), Jomo Kenyatta Foundation (JKF), Intergovernmental Relations Technical Committee (IGRTC) and development partners including Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICAN), CAP Youth Empowerment Institute, Mastercard foundation, GIZ, Uthabiti Africa, EIDU, UNICEF and Instill Education.
Speaking during the official opening of the induction, the CoG Education committee chair H.E. Erick Mutai appreciated the work done by the secretariat in organizing the induction meeting while congratulating the CECMs for education on their appointment. He reiterated the value of education in the overall economy of a country adding that education should be understood as a cross-cutting function and the focal point of all other sectors.
“Previously, there existed no formal or structured teaching program for VTCs and ECDEs. The sector has made remarkable progress despite the limited resources not forgetting that the CoG has also realized remarkable progress in implementation of the ECDE scheme of service,” noted the Governor. He further emphasized his intention to work with the CECMs to ensure that both the VTCs and ECDE Centres are well-equipped and provide quality service to the locals.
While making his opening remarks CoG Director Committees, Mr. Kizito Wangalwa, expressed confidence that the newly appointed CECMs will effectively discharge their mandate to ensure smooth learning in the VTCs and ECDE Centres.
“The Council will continue to show its support to all Counties for enhanced service delivery to Kenyans who rely on the VTCs and ECDE centers for training and career development,” added Mr. Wangalwa.
During the session on bridging the gap in policy development, implementation, and monitoring, Hon. Joseph Nyutu Chair of the Senate Education committee highlighted that approximately 20 Counties were yet to implement the ECDE scheme of service.
“Counties should endeavor to let learners see teaching as a noble profession. The CECMs should double as educationists and parents and also lobby for more resources through budgets to the County Assemblies. There is a need to enact legislations that support the ECDE sector so as to secure increased budgetary allocations and enlighten the citizenry on ECDE education through public participation,” he noted.
Having been taken through the Human Resources, Legal, budgeting and financing, and procurement processes by the CoG technical committee representatives, the Education CECMs expressed their commitment to working closely with the CoG and other stakeholders for effective service delivery in the devolved units.
While closing the meeting, the CoG Education Committee technical lead Ms. Valarie Akinyi added that it's only through the concerted efforts of both levels of government and partners that the status of vocational training centers and ECDE schools would be improved.
TRANSFORMING AGRICULTURE THROUGH PARTNER COORDINATION
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The Agriculture, Livestock, and Cooperatives Committee Chaired by H.E. Kenneth Lusaka held its inaugural meeting on 15th November 2022. The meeting, also attended by the Agriculture Rural Development Partners Group(TROICA), was to apprise the Governors Committee on the ongoing projects and programmes currently being implemented in the Agriculture Sector across the Counties.
Speaking during the meeting, H.E. Kenneth Lusaka reiterated the importance of the agriculture sector in Kenya as a great contributor to Kenya’s economy while ensuring that all Kenyans have access to healthy and adequate food at all times.
“This is a very important committee in this Country. This is where we discuss and strategize how we will change the agriculture sector and produce food for our people,” said Governor Lusaka.
“It is unfortunate that the County Additional Allocations Bill has taken too long to be passed. Currently, the Bill is on its Second reading following a lot of lobbying by the Council of Governors. However, as the Council of Governors we will engage the leadership of both Houses to ensure that this problem does not recur, even during election years.” He added.
The efforts of the development partners in the Agriculture sector cannot be understated. There are several partner-supported programmes in the country that have greatly boosted the sector including the National Agricultural and Rural Inclusive Growth Project (NARIGP) Project, the Kenya Climate Smart Agriculture Project (KCSAP) among others.
Governor Kahiga said, “What the development partners are doing in our Counties is incredible. It is important for us to remain in touch to ensure we are all up to date on the projects and programmes. I call upon the development partners to support the Council of Governors to ensure that it has the capacity to coordinate all programs from the secretariat” Said the Nyeri boss.
Speaking on the same breathe, Migori Governor noted “I wish to thank the development partners for what they are doing in our Counties. I call upon development partners to support us beyond the capacity building to ensure we are able to produce and market our farm produce ”.
Development partners are currently implementing several projects in the Counties. Constant communication, meetings, and updates are therefore important among the entities involved. Following the current transition at the National and County level, there is need for capacity building for the new administration to ensure that no project suffers or is forgotten.
“Following the transition, it is important for us to apprise the County Leadership, CECs and Chief officers of the Donor supported projects and programmes in the Counties. This will allow the new administration to cooperate with the implementing partners to see the successful implementation of the projects,” said Governor Kawira Mwangaza.
Enhanced communication between the Counties and especially the Governors and the development partners will foster collaboration to ensure that the projects and programs in the Counties are well distributed among Counties and achieve their objectives.
COG PARTNERS WITH BILL AND MELINDA GATES FOUNDATION TO BOOST SERVICE DELIVERY IN COUNTIES
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The Council of Governors (CoG) on 17th November 2022, held a roundtable meeting with Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) led by its co-chair Bill Gates, to deliberate on possible areas of partnership in Kenya’s devolved sectors. Also in attendance was the foundation’s Global Director, Benjamin Piper, the Africa Director, Cheikh Oumar Seydi and the East African Regional Representative, Samburu Wa-Shiko.
Speaking during the meeting, CoG Chair H.E. Anne Waiguru noted that while Counties had made significant strides towards realizing the devolution dream, there was need for greater collaboration to safeguard the gains made and ensure sustainability of programs and projects initiated in the Counties.
“We call for a direct partnership with the CoG to enable it effectively deliver on its mandate of sharing of information and best practices in the devolved sectors,” added H.E. Waiguru.
On health, CoG called for the strengthening of primary health care initiatives at the County level through capacity building for community health workers and the use of technology such as point-of-care ultrasound and artificial intelligence. The CoG emphasized the need for funding various primary health care interventions with a view of cascading key interventions aimed at attaining Universal Health Coverage in the country.
Further, the County Chiefs called for increased investment to boost the country’s food security owing to the perennial drought situation in the country, further exacerbated by the adverse effects of climate change.
“We need to strengthen agriculture extension services and value addition, particularly through the provision of agricultural inputs to farmers, reduction of cost of mechanization, and enhancing market access,” noted H.E. Kenneth Lusaka Chair of the Agriculture, Livestock and Cooperatives committee.
The roundtable meeting between Governors and the BMGF follows the just concluded COP 27 UN Summit of Climate Change where Governors called upon the international community to support interventions Counties are undertaking to counter climate change. The CoG highlighted the need to strengthen the capacities of County Governments in climate change response and delivery mechanisms and building resilient communities.
“The CoG cannot turn a blind eye to the impacts of climate change and a lasting solution can only be achieved through joint locally-led climate actions at the lowest level. This includes adaptation initiatives such as the adoption of smart agriculture through improved drought-resistant seeds and improved dairy breeds for increased milk production,” noted the Chair, CoG.
Other areas of partnership singled out include the adoption of technology through automation of government services across devolved sectors such as health, revenue collection, agriculture extension services, waste management, urban planning, and development. This will support an open governance system that enhances transparency and ensures effective service delivery.
In addition, Governors called for the inclusion and involvement of Counties to ensure the co-creation of projects and the development of transformative programmes that are responsive to the needs of the people. The CoG also reiterated its commitment to the full implementation of Sustainable Development Goals, noting that Counties have put in place SDG units to track and report the progress of implementation.
“We would like to reaffirm the forward-looking commitment of the Foundation to support innovations and solutions aimed at improving critical areas such as health and food security. Through the existing partnership between the Foundation and County Governments, we will continue to advance the devolution agenda in Kenya to enhance service delivery as well as improve the lives and livelihoods of all Kenyans,” said Bill Gates.
DROUGHT SITUATION WORSENS AS GOVERNMENT, DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS HOLD CONSULTATIVE MEETING ON RESPONSE COORDINATION
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The National and County Governments, and development partners on 7th October, 2022, held a consultative meeting chaired by Deputy President H.E. Rigathi Gachagua on the drought situation in the country. The forum was aimed at undertaking a status report on the drought in the 23 arid and semi-arid Counties as well as pockets in 9 other counties that are experiencing drought, coordinate response activities and identify priority areas for intervention.
The drought situation in Kenya, declared a national disaster on 8th September 2021, is the worst drought to have been experienced in most parts of the country in more than 40 years. According to the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) October 2022 Early warning report, the number of people in need of humanitarian assistance is approximately 4.35 million with 942,000 cases of children aged 6-59 months acutely malnourished and 134,000 cases of pregnant or lactating women acutely malnourished and in need of treatment across the country.
Speaking during the meeting, the Deputy President reiterated the commitment of the National Government to ensure that all stakeholders come together to avert the loss of lives due to hunger in Kenya.
“As a Government, we will work with all of you to enhance food security and ensure that all Kenyans receive sufficient food as well as feeds for their animals,” added H.E. Rigathi Gachagua.
On his part, Council of Governors Vice Chair, H.E. Ahmed Abdullahi highlighted some of the priority response interventions to curb the effects of drought in Kenya.
“Other priority response interventions are: treatment for acute malnutrition; water trucking; livestock offtake and livestock feed; enhanced school meals programme and fees subsidies; support to the operationalization of boreholes; desilting of water reservoirs (water pans, earth dams); and support towards safe and peaceful access and migration,” said Governor Ahmed.
“As a Council, we make a clarion call to all stakeholders to support the drought intervention measures as guided by the key priority areas for a resilient and food secure nation,” he added.
Governors have committed to take leadership of County Steering Groups (CSGs), which remain the official drought response coordination structures at the County level. The National Government has, therefore, made arrangements with Governors and other stakeholders to fast-tracking food distribution to areas where it is needed most.
During the meeting, the Development Partners commended the Government of Kenya for their efforts in responding to the drought.
In his remarks, UN Resident Coordinator Dr. Stephen Jackson expressed solidarity with the Government and people of Kenya in coping with the devastating effects of drought.
“UN agencies are already providing support in various counties through food assistance, water trucking, and distribution of non-food items such as shelter materials, and hygiene kits. Additionally, we request the Government of Kenya to consider reopening the Kenya-Somalia border to allow the UN to upscale its humanitarian response,” he noted.
According to partners, cash transfer remains to be the most efficient method of fighting against the effects of drought. In this regard, the National Government, County Governments, and development partners have therefore begun a coordinated cash transfer programme coupled with emergency relief food assistance.
An intergovernmental coordination mechanism has been established and it was agreed that weekly updates on progress would be shared between and across various coordination levels.
COG, DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS PLEDGE TO WORK TOGETHER TO DEEPEN DEVOLUTION
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Governors have pledged to work in collaboration with development partners to strengthen devolution in Kenya and ensure effective coordination of programmes across the 47 Counties.
Speaking during a consultative meeting between Governors and development partners held on 31st October 2022, COG Chair, H.E. Anne Waiguru, thanked the development partners for their continued support in advancing Counties’ Development Agenda since the advent of devolution. Also in attendance were Ambassadors, High Commissioners, Mission Representatives, Head of Development Corporations, UN Country Representatives, and the National Treasury, among others.
“County Governments remain key in the provision of proximate, easily accessible services to citizens throughout Kenya. As a Council, we welcome the move to co-create programmes and development initiatives to ensure they are responsive to the actual needs of the citizens at the lowest level,” noted H.E. Waiguru.
H.E. Cecily Mbarire, Chair of the COG Resource Mobilization and Partnerships Committee highlighted that the meeting had come at an opportune time when County Governments are developing their 3rd Generation of County Integrated Development Plans (CIDPs), an essential tool that incorporates the development programmes and projects in the Counties.
“It is my hope that this meeting will deepen our partnerships, engagements, and collaboration for mutual benefit of the people we are called to serve,” noted H.E. Mbarire.
County Governments have made commendable progress in transforming the Country’s devolved sectors and bringing services closer to the people. However, myriad of challenges continue to derail the effective implementation of programmes and projects in devolved units. These includes delays in disbursement of funds to Counties; low absorption of funds; alignment of the development partner’s budgeting process to the national budgeting cycle; anchorage of programmes on devolved functions at the national level; linkage of the results, impact, monitoring and evaluation aspects of the project cycle to the existent County and National monitoring frameworks; equitable distribution of programmes and projects across all Counties; and governance, mutual accountability, and transparency.
COG Whip H.E. Stephen Sang further emphasized the need for each County to identify their priority areas for investment in line with their unique needs and opportunities.
“It is very sad that millions of Kenyans across the Country are dying of hunger yet there is plenty of food going to waste in other Counties. Both levels of Government and development partners need to come together to find a lasting solution to this menace,” he added.
H.E. Amb. Ole Thonke, Chair of the Devolution Donor Working Group on his part reiterated the need for a strengthened intergovernmental framework and operationalization of sector working groups to coordinate partners’ development initiatives across the Country. This will avoid duplication of efforts and ensure equitable and sustainable development across the 47 Counties.
“I urge all Governors to ensure accountability and transparency in the utilization of allocated resources. We shall continue to work in collaboration with County Governments to empower them to take up their functions for enhanced service delivery in the Counties,” noted Amb. Ole Thonke.
More than ever, there is need for concerted and coordinated efforts from all partners in addressing the challenges that claw back on the gains of devolution for a resilient and sustainable Kenya.
Among the key resolutions made include:
1. The COG to be represented in all the high level development Partners’ forum chaired by the Deputy President;
2. COG working jointly with the development partners to map partner interaction with each County and develop a publication with each County’s programmes / projects;
3. Development Partners to engage COG in the design of new programmes relating to devolved functions from the beginning to ensure alignment with the county plans;
4. County Governments to strengthen their resource mobilization and partnerships departments to facilitate engagement with development partners at the county level;
5. County Governments to work together with National Government and development partners to facilitate mobilization and movement of relief support from Counties with plenty of food to the drought affected Counties;
6. Development partners to ensure equity in distribution of development support to cover all the 47 Counties and prevent further marginalization of some parts of the country.
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GOVERNORS CALL UPON NATIONAL TREASURY TO RELEASE FUNDS OWED
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The Council of Governors on 6th October 2022, held a full Council meeting to discuss key issues of common interest to County Governments. These include the status of disbursement of equitable share of revenue, County Governments’ additional allocations, and the unbundling, costing, and transfer of functions and attendant resources.
This was the second Council meeting since the Governors Induction workshop held in Mombasa County in September 2022, where Governors elected the new leadership that will steer the agenda of devolution into the next phase.
The 3rd Generation of County Governments have started on a bleak note owing to lack of resources at the County Level. Contrary to the Public Finance Management Act, 2012 which requires the National Treasury to disburse funds to Counties on the 15th Day of every month, County Governments have arrears dating back to August 2022. 7 Counties are yet to receive Ksh. 5.28 billion August allocations while all 47 Counties have not received their September and October allocations.
The delays and the unpredictable disbursements of funds has negatively impacted service delivery and Counties run the risk of accruing pending bills. County operations such as payment of salaries to county officials have come to a halt while the purchase of medical supplies; development projects, and response interventions to drought and disaster management have been grossly affected.
Further, Governors deliberated on the Conditional allocations to County Governments. To this end, Counties are owed 27.68 billion for the 2021/22 Financial Year, and another Ksh. 37 billion remain outstanding in the current FY 2022/23 due to the delays in the passage of the County Governments Additional Allocations Bill, 2022.
Speaking during a press briefing after the Council meeting, the Council of Governors Chair H.E. Anne Waiguru called upon Parliament to re-introduce the Bill under the prioritized bills.
“We note that the National Assembly during its first sitting re-introduced some Bills that were not finalized during the 12th Parliament. It is noted that the County Governments Additional Allocations Bill, 2022 was not among the prioritized Bills” said the COG Chair.
On functional assignment, a meeting between the COG leadership and the Intergovernmental Relations Technical Committee (IGRTC) was held before the full Council meeting. It was resolved that the two institutions finalize the analysis of the unbundling and transfer of functions using the “big bang” approach used during the 1st phase of the transfer of functions spearheaded by the defunct Transition Authority. Further, COG and IGRTC through IBEC, will lobby for the allocation of adequate resources to facilitate the finalization of unbundling of functions, valuation, and transfer of assets of the defunct local authorities and assets of the National Government to County Governments.
COG MEETS PFM AND PUBLIC SERVICE INSTITUTIONS TO ENHANCE MANAGEMENT OF THE SECTORS
Written by CoG web Admin
The Council of Governors held a two-day retreat with Governors and Deputy Governors from 12th to 13th October 2022, under the theme “Public Finance, Procurement and Human Resource Management in Counties: What works?”. The forum sought to appraise the County leaders on the structures, processes and systems that support public finance and County public service management for effective and efficient service delivery in the devolved units. Also in attendance was the National Treasury, Office of the Controller of Budget, Office of the Auditor General, Commission on Revenue Allocation (CRA), Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA), Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), Development Partners and the private sector.
The retreat came at an opportune time when the third generation of County Governments are beginning their tenure amidst claims of graft, misappropriation of public funds, pending bills and a bloated workforce among other challenges inherited from previous administrations.
“Let us utilize this unique opportunity to learn, share best practices and engage in candid conversations that address the existent challenges grappling County Governments to enable us effectively discharge our mandate,” noted COG Chair H.E. Anne Waiguru while appreciating all stakeholders for their endearing commitment to strengthen devolution in Kenya.
“Both the National and County Governments are distinct but interdependent entities that play an essential role in the implementation of devolution in Kenya as guided by the tenets of our Constitution. Let us work together to deliver on the promises of devolution and realize the dreams and aspirations of all Kenyans,” added H.E. Ahmed Abdullahi, Vice Chair, COG.
The County bosses were taken through County budgeting, County Governments Reporting, and Accountability; Formula for sharing revenue among Counties; Costing, unbundling, and transfer of functions; Tenure of office for County officers including County attorneys, County Secretaries, and County Chief Officers; Categories of staff at the County Governments; Wage bill management in the County Governments; and Critical policy issues in Public procurement.
Governors have time and again decried the perennial delays in the disbursement of funds to Counties, a situation that has had detrimental impacts on service delivery across various devolved sectors such as health, agriculture, water, and education.
It was resolved that the National Treasury ensures the disbursement of funds to County Governments within the statutory timelines to ensure the smooth running of operations in the Counties. Further, the meeting agreed on the following;
1. National Treasury, Council of Governors, and CRA to have working committees to develop position papers on how to handle the payment of salaries of the Early Childhood Educators and classification of development spending;
2. Excellency Governors shall support the Office of the Auditor General in promoting accountability in the management of public funds;
3.The Intergovernmental Relations Technical Committee shall ensure that all devolved functions are fully unbundled and transferred to County Governments and the attendant resources to follow the functions;
4. The Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) to work closely with County Governments to harmonize salaries and benefits of all officers in the Counties; and Excellency Governors to ensure that the procurement function is undertaken by procurement professionals as defined by the Public Procurement law.
COG COMMITTEE CHAIRS APPRAISED ON COMMITTEE ISSUES
Written by CoG web Admin
Council of Governors Liaison and Resource Management Committee which brings together all Committee Chairs and is led by CoG Vice Chair H.E Ahmed Abdullahi held its inaugural meeting with the Secretariat Technical leads on Tuesday, 27th September 2022.
The purpose of the meeting was to appraise Excellency Governors on the status of sectoral matters as well priority areas that require their immediate intervention.
While delivering her opening remarks, the Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Mary Mwiti noted, “The Council of Governors executes its agenda through technical committees. This is the first meeting of this nature where all Committee Chairs and technical staff have met to discuss sectoral issues as well as share the expectations of each Committee.” She noted adding that the devolution agenda can only be propelled by commitment and dedication from Committee Chairs.
On his part, the Vice Chairman reiterated the commitment of the Executive to ensuring a more vibrant Council of Governors and implementation of recommendations. “The executive is keen to ensure that all committees remain active. As the Chair in charge of this committee, it will be my agenda to ensure we escalate critical issues brought to the attention of this committee to fora such as IBEC and the Summit. Further, our impetus as the executive is to ensure that we have improved intergovernmental relations with Parliament and the National Government Executive as well as other devolution stakeholders.”
To showcase what has been done thus far and the gaps in the devolved sectors, the CoG Director Committees, Mr. Kizito Wangalwa, shared a detailed presentation on the key committee issues including: review of policies, laws, regulations and institutions to align with the assignment of functions in the Constitution; financing the County functions; and service delivery in the Counties.
“Some of the key issues in the committees include the completion of the unbundling, delineation, costing, and transfer of functions; completion of the valuation and transfer of assets relating to devolved functions; and anchoring the CoG Secretariat in law,” said Director Kizito.
Following this meeting resolutions were made as follows:
1. There is a need to improve the intergovernmental relations between Parliament and CoG as well as Constitutional Commissions and independent offices;
2. There is a need for a discussion with IGRTC to understand the level of collaboration, especially with the Presidency and the CoG in terms of the Summit;
3. The 3rd generation of County Governments to focus on the unbundling and complete transfer of all County functions;
4. The CoG should review the County Boundaries Bill to address intergovernmental disputes and a formula for addressing the boundaries issue should be developed;
5. The Liaison committee will follow up with Parliament to ensure that the County Additional Allocation Bill is published and read in the 1st seating as a way of fast-tracking the Bill;
6. Constitute a round table meeting with development partners, map out what each development partner does and what projects are being undertaken in the Counties; and
7. Have a robust conversation with the National Treasury on Public Private Partnership as a mode of financing for County projects.
WOMEN GOVERNORS MEET DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS AS THEY BEGIN 5-YEAR TENURE
Written by CoG web Admin
The Council of Governors on Monday, 26th September 2022 convened a meet-and-greet breakfast meeting with development partners and the 7 newly elected women Governors. The breakfast meeting provided a platform for the women Governors and development partners to interact and explore possible areas of partnership and collaboration.
Kenya, has for the first time in history, attained the highest number of women Governors since the inception of devolved governance in 2013. This is a significant improvement compared to the 2017 General Elections when 3 women were elected as Governors. The seven newly elected female Governors are: H.E. Anne Waiguru (Kirinyaga County); H.E. Susan Kihika (Nakuru County); H.E. Gladys Wanga (Homabay County); H.E. Cecily Mbarire (Embu County); H.E. Wavinya Ndeti (Machakos County); H.E. Fatuma Achani (Kwale County); and H.E. Kawira Mwangaza (Meru County). While the two–thirds gender principle remains elusive, the increase in the number of women in gubernatorial positions is definitely a step in the right direction and a testament of the confidence that the Kenyan electorate have in women’s ability to lead.
CoG Chair H. E. Anne Waiguru highlighted that the meeting came at an opportune time when the women Governors were beginning their five-year tenure and would be instrumental in enabling them to learn, network, and share experiences for better execution of their mandates.
“We appreciate the continued support from all the development partners present here today and look forward to enhanced collaboration and cooperation as we seek to actualize the visions that we hold for our Counties and Nation,” added H.E. Anne Waiguru.
Council of Governors CEO Ms. Mary Mwiti further noted the need for intentional, strategic and systematic approaches in supporting excellence in governance and service delivery at the County level.
“We hope that these interactions will forge strategic partnerships that will guarantee equitable and sustainable development and empowerment of all women and girls, men and boys,” she said.
The 7 female Governors highlighted key priority areas that required urgent support in order to spur growth and socio-economic development in their Counties. These include women and youth empowerment, agriculture, water and sanitation, Universal Health Care (UHC), child protection and development, food and security, climate change and blue economy among others.
While commending the 7 women Governors for their win in the 9th August 2022 polls, the EU Ambassador to Kenya Ms. Henriette Geiger noted that women leaders are held to higher standards in comparison to their male counterparts and are generally viewed with a more critical eye.
“We commit to support all the women Governors in effectively delivering their mandates. Together, we will overcome the challenges hampering the successful implementation of devolution and strive to improve the lives of the Kenyan people,” she added.
US Ambassador to Kenya Ms. Meg Whitman expressed the great interest of her government in supporting Counties’ development through different projects. She highlighted the cordial relations, longstanding mutual interest, cooperation, and enduring partnership between Kenya and the US.
The meeting resolved that both development partners and women Governors would work hand in hand to deliver on the promise of devolution.