By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Kenya, May 30, 2026 - The State Department for Devolution on Friday operationalised the Devolution Sector Working Group (DSWG) thematic teams in a move aimed at strengthening coordination, accountability and service delivery under Kenya's devolved system of government.
The teams, unveiled during a stakeholders' meeting attended by representatives from national and county governments, development partners and civil society organisations, are expected to enhance collaboration, promote knowledge-sharing and improve implementation of devolution programmes across the country.
Speaking at the meeting, Principal Secretary for Devolution Michael Loikenu Lenasalon said the thematic teams would play a crucial role in guiding policy direction and ensuring effective implementation of devolution initiatives.
“The thematic teams will be critical in strengthening accountability, guiding policy direction and supporting effective implementation of devolution at both national and county levels,” said Mr Lenasalon.
He noted that Kenya's devolution landscape continues to evolve and requires stronger multi-agency collaboration to address emerging challenges.
The PS called on stakeholders to shift their focus from policy development to the implementation of programmes that deliver tangible benefits to citizens, particularly at a time when the sector is facing financial constraints.
“We need to move beyond policy formulation and focus on implementing impactful programmes and interventions, especially in the face of shrinking fiscal space,” he said.
Mr Lenasalon also stressed the importance of documenting successful county projects and replicating them across the country through peer learning and knowledge-sharing.
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The newly operationalised thematic teams will focus on four key areas: institutional framework and governance; fiscal and financial management; service delivery and performance management; and research and innovation.
According to the State Department, the teams are expected to improve coordination among stakeholders while providing a platform for sharing best practices and addressing challenges affecting devolution.
Development partners, including GIZ, UNDP, the World Bank and the European Union, reaffirmed their support for efforts aimed at strengthening sustainable and accountable devolution in Kenya.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from the State Department for Devolution, including Director of Administration Justine Nelima, Director of Partnerships and Intergovernmental Relations Lesley Khayadi, Director of Human Resource Management and Development Jayne Asuma, Director of Economic Planning Dr Jackson Otieno, Kenya Devolution Support Programme II National Coordinator Dr Samuel Nyaga, Head of Civic Education and Public Participation Dr Silvia Vundi and Head of Intergovernmental Relations John Kunga.
Devolution, introduced under the 2010 Constitution, established 47 county governments with the aim of bringing services closer to citizens, enhancing public participation and promoting equitable development across the country.
The Devolution Sector Working Group serves as a platform for coordinating stakeholders involved in the implementation and strengthening of the devolved system of governance.
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