Kenya is at the threshold of a new development era, marked by increasing economic growth and major democratic reforms heralded by the 2010 Constitution and peaceful elections in 2013. The Constitution addresses longstanding geographic, demographic, gender and resource allocation imbalances that have hindered development in the past. It is people-centred, with special emphasis on economic, social and cultural rights, and it mandates a high level of devolution of power and resources to 47 new counties.

To deliver on the promises of the Constitution, Kenya will require adequate institutional capacity, responsive leadership at all levels, effective accountability and inclusive, responsible civic engagement. The Government recognizes the potential of a vibrant civil society to support its efforts to engage citizens in development, and seeks to forge an effective partnership governed by principles of mutual accountability, financial transparency, effective coordination and information-sharing.

Devolution presents unique opportunities to improve service delivery based on enhanced citizens’ engagement, but it has revealed capacity constraints in counties. These constraints, coupled with inadequate resources to fund the new systems and structures and a lack of clarity about institutional roles and responsibilities, represent an important development challenge for the country.