Homa Bay, Kenya – The 9th Devolution Conference entered its third day with a powerful address from ODM leader and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who rallied delegates around the pillars of good governance, democracy, and social justice.
Speaking at Homa Bay High School, Raila – celebrated for decades of human rights advocacy and democratic reforms – took participants through the foundational principles that have shaped Kenya’s devolved system of governance since the 2010 Constitution.
Tributes to a Devolution Champion
Kilifi Senator Stephen Madgayo hailed Raila as “a true architect of devolution,” recalling his role in the constitutional reforms that birthed 47 autonomous county governments. Former Senate Deputy Speaker Prof. Margaret Kamar echoed the sentiment, praising Raila’s “unwavering commitment to freedoms and human rights” and backing President William Ruto’s tough stance against entrenched corruption in state organs.
Prof. Kamar also conveyed greetings from Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, while urging lawmakers to safeguard service delivery at both county and national levels.
Healthcare Achievements and Social Justice
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale lauded Homa Bay’s hospitality and acknowledged Raila’s fight for social justice and equity. He outlined major strides in Kenya’s healthcare sector — from skilled care and universal health access to upgraded facilities and expanded cancer prevention programs.
Duale credited Raila for his role in Naivasha and Mombasa constitutional negotiations that secured the Bill of Rights, entrenched devolution, and introduced Kadhis’ Courts. He also noted Raila’s push for a parliamentary system that would open top leadership opportunities to all Kenyans, “a dream yet to be realized.”
Governors Weigh In
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, the day’s host, applauded the private sector and development partners for making the four-day summit a success and bringing “economic windfalls to the region with vast untapped potential.” She praised Raila’s role in anchoring devolution in Kenya’s political framework.
Siaya Governor James Orengo reflected on his days as a young reformist alongside Raila, recalling the repeal of Section 2A, the reintroduction of multiparty democracy, and the eventual constitutional reforms under President Mwai Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga that led to devolution’s birth.
Council of Governors Chair and Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdulahi introduced fellow governors, acknowledged county-level successes, but flagged persistent challenges. He questioned why over eight governors have been impeached while no MP or MCA has faced a similar fate, and criticized annual county budget weaponization.
Raila’s Call to Action
In his closing remarks, Raila urged lawmakers to work harmoniously across political divides on legislation, oversight, and representation, stressing the need for laws that uphold accountability and strengthen devolution.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi also addressed the gathering, underscoring national unity and intergovernmental cooperation.
Siaya’s Innovation Showcase
Siaya County brought 11 exhibitors to the conference, including SIBOWASCO, which unveiled smart water meter technologies using the GoSoft platform to monitor pressure, detect faults, and enforce bill compliance. Other innovations included precision testing meters and an interactive map of water distribution in Siaya, Bondo, Yala, and Ugenya.
Governor Orengo’s delegation featured senior county officials, including County Secretary Joseph Ogutu, CECs, CEO PSB Wilfred Nyagudi, Chief Officers, and Directors across governance, education, health, trade, sports, water, agriculture, lands, public service, and tourism sectors.
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