Devolution and Development in Kenya: Selected Issues, Challenges and Remedies

Post-independent Kenya’s development-related debates evoke issues of equitable distribution of resources for all citizens across the country. Past efforts such as the District Focus for Rural Development of the 1980s recognized the need to have development priorities based on local needs. The Constitution of Kenya (2010) devolved services and development, with the creation of the county governments’ structure which are guided by the principles of equity. Debates and discussions continue on the true impact of devolution and whether or not it has realized its mandate in terms of development as intended by the constitution. Scholars in this book explore this subject and provide insights on the real impact of devolution.