Kenya’s transformative journey of devolution was envisioned to bring government closer to the people, drive equitable development, and empower counties to address local priorities. Yet, as Senator Danson Mungatana warned at the Devolution Conference in Homa Bay County, this noble vision risks derailment unless accountability becomes the unshakable backbone of the entire governance framework.
Governors—the linchpins of devolved governance—must embrace transparency and robust oversight. The public entrusts them with billions of shillings to fund vital services like healthcare, clean water, education, and infrastructure. But when questions arise on how these funds are used, too many governors retreat from scrutiny, eroding trust and compromising service delivery.
Mungatana’s observation is damning yet accurate: governors frequently demand more funding while resisting the obligation to justify expenditure. This contradiction undermines the very principles of leadership, which demand not only ambition to transform counties but also the humility to be answerable—to the Senate, to civil society, and most importantly, to citizens.
His call to support human rights organizations is equally vital. These watchdogs play a crucial role in safeguarding public interest and monitoring governance. County administrations should view them not as adversaries but as partners in ensuring that governance remains transparent, just, and people-centered.
Millie Odhiambo’s remarks added another layer—citizens must be active participants in the accountability process. Devolution’s success depends not only on leaders’ integrity but also on an engaged and vigilant public demanding good governance.
The shared message from the conference’s diverse voices—senators, governors, civil society leaders, and legal minds—is clear: without rigorous oversight, active civic engagement, and unwavering transparency, devolution’s promise will remain unfulfilled.
For Kenya’s 47 counties to flourish, accountability cannot be optional or secondary—it must be the foundation of every development initiative and public service. Only then will devolution live up to its true purpose: improving lives, protecting rights, and building equitable, thriving communities across the nation.
James Kilonzo Bwire is a Media and Communication Practitioner.
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