Decentralization and Poverty Reduction: Opportunities and Challenges in Kenya

Abstract

Kenya is the newest to join a growing number of countries opting for decentralization over centralization. Aimed to promote democracy, national unity, self-governance, equitable sharing of resources and creating checks and balances and the separation of powers; devolution in Kenya comes with massive expectations in a country that have failed to achieve its potentials. There exist challenges such as persistence of the old system, growing recurrent expenditure, shortage of qualified manpower, reported cases of corruption and lack of active local participation. Despite these challenges, a supportive constitution, vibrant civil society, and the democratic political structure of the country provide opportunities for devolution to succeed in Kenya.