The Constitution of Kenya 2010 contains all the provisions necessary to guarantee the full and proper implementation of devolution, Senator Catherine Mumma has affirmed.

Speaking during a panel discussion at the ongoing Devolution Conference in Homa Bay County, Sen. Mumma said the legal framework for devolution is already firmly in place. What remains, she noted, is the will and collaboration among all stakeholders to make it work for the benefit of every Kenyan.

“Our Constitution has laid down both the software and hardware for effective governance. There are clear structures in place for running devolution,” she stated.

She urged Kenyans and stakeholders to unite in ensuring that devolution is not only implemented in full but also safeguarded from neglect. “Every country is better off with devolution. We must examine what we are not doing well and collectively work to deliver services to all counties,” she emphasised.

Sen. Mumma further called on citizens to be vigilant and to hold leaders and public servants accountable, stressing that devolution can only succeed if all parties actively play their part. “Good governance cannot happen unless we apply the software that is clearly embedded in Chapter Six of our Constitution,” she explained, appealing for an increase in resources allocated to counties.

While commending counties that have taken the lead in ensuring devolution’s success, she also warned against the vices that undermine progress. “Issues such as corruption, mismanagement, poor governance and disrespect for the rule of law are hampering the success of devolution and these must be addressed decisively,” Sen. Mumma cautioned.

The discussion, held under the theme Rebuilding the Foundations of Good Governance, sought to evaluate how well devolved governments have embedded the principles of good governance. The session also explored strategies to strengthen transparency, accountability and citizen participation in decision-making, with the aim of improving service delivery at the grassroots.

Keynote speaker Ambassador Henriette Geiger, the European Union (EU) Ambassador to Kenya, assured the gathering of the EU’s unwavering commitment to seeing devolution succeed for the benefit of Kenyans. 

“Successful devolution translates into peace and stability. As the EU, we are working to strengthen good governance at the county level, alongside accountability and transparency,” she remarked.

Other panellists included among others Migori Governor Dr Ochillo Ayacko, Court of Appeal Judge Justice George Odunga, Uraia Trust Executive Director Mr. Oliver Waindi and Law Society of Kenya (LSK) representative Mr. Brian Odongo.