Governors Cite Retained Functions and Funding Delays as Threats to Devolution at Inaugural County Peer Review Summit

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Governors Cite Retained Functions and Funding Delays as Threats to Devolution at Inaugural County Peer Review Summit


By MAXIMILLA WAFULA 
The COUNTY DIARY NEWS 

Nairobi, 7th August 2024 – During the inaugural National County Peer Review Mechanism Summit at Nairobi’s KICC, twelve governors expressed concerns over the delayed release of exchequer funds and the retention of key functions by national government ministries, which they claim are threatening the viability of counties.

Among those present were Nandi Governor Stephen Sang, NEPAD Chief Executive Officer Amb. Samori Okwiya, and Kisumu Governor Peter Anyang' Nyong'o. The governors lamented that certain devolved functions remain under the control of national ministries in Nairobi, leaving counties without the necessary funds to effectively govern, thereby undermining the concept of devolution.

The peer review process allows counties to compare their governance approaches, assess progress, and ensure adherence to constitutional mandates. However, the governors emphasized that while comparing developmental progress is crucial, the unique challenges faced by devolved units must also be recognized.

Led by Governor Sang, the governors highlighted several impediments, including the withholding of funds by ministries and structural issues, which allow well-connected individuals to thwart development programs. Governor Sang pointed out the difficulties in acquiring sufficient land for county projects, which can either drive up costs or halt initiatives altogether.

"In Nandi, the county headquarters sits on only half an acre of land, making it difficult to implement development projects. The cost of acquiring land sometimes exceeds the entire project budget," Governor Sang remarked, urging the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to intervene.

The governors also stressed that delayed exchequer releases result in the accumulation of pending bills, pushing local entrepreneurs out of business. Governor Nyong’o of Kisumu echoed these concerns, stating that his county faces similar issues.

END/

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