The Senate Committee on Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations, chaired by Senator Mohamed Abass, held an engagement today with the Council of Governors (COG), Intergovernmental Relations Technical Committee (IGRTC), County Assemblies Forum (CAF) and the State Department for Devolution. The focus was on the Intergovernmental Relations (Amendment) Bill 2024 (Senate Bill No. 12 of 2024).

The primary objective of the Bill is to create a structured framework for intergovernmental and intragovernmental relations. It proposes renaming the Intergovernmental Relations Technical Committee (IGRTC) to the Intergovernmental Relations Agency.

The Bill also aims to define the roles of the Council of Governors and the County Assemblies Forum Secretariat in horizontal intergovernmental relations.

COG Chair Governor Ann Waiguru, representing the Council of Governors, informed the lawmakers that during the twentieth Ordinary Session of the Intergovernmental Budget and Economic Council meeting held on June 5, 2023 and the tenth Ordinary Session of the National and County Governments Coordinating Summit on December 18, 2023, it was agreed that the Intergovernmental Relations Act be amended. This includes renaming the Intergovernmental Relations Technical Committee and establishing the secretariat of the Council of Governors, among other changes.

Governor Waiguru highlighted the Council of Governors' request for the Senate to incorporate these recommendations to strengthen the governance structure of intergovernmental institutions. She emphasized the need to enhance the composition of the agency to empower it to effectively resolve intergovernmental disputes between different government levels.

The Intergovernmental Relations Technical Committee, submitting their memorandum, emphasized that intergovernmental relations between the two levels of government and among county governments are fundamental to the success of the devolved system of government.

Hon. Philemon Sabulei, representing the County Assemblies Forum (CAF), stated that establishing a structured framework for intergovernmental relations is crucial for enhancing coordination and cooperation between the National Government, County Executives, and County Assemblies. This framework is expected to lead to more efficient governance and improved public service delivery.

Hon. Sabulei noted that including CAF and its Secretariat within the legal framework provides a formal platform for consultation, dispute resolution and capacity building among County Assemblies. This inclusion is essential for promoting best practices and ensuring a unified approach to addressing common issues.

He added that enhancing the functions and powers of the Intergovernmental Relations Agency will facilitate more effective engagements with intergovernmental forums, ensuring that the interests of County Assemblies are adequately represented and considered in intergovernmental discussions.

The Committee resolved to re-invite stakeholders who have not yet exhausted their views on the Bill before retreating to write a report.