National and County governments have been urged to deepen collaboration, clarify roles, and address overlaps to maximize the benefits of devolution and improve service delivery to citizens.
The appeal was made during County Devolution Civic Education and Sensitization Forum held at the County Commissioner’s office in Uhuru na Kazi Building, Mombasa, on Monday.
Principal Secretary in the State Department for Devolution, Michael Lenasalon, in his speech read by Head of Civic Education and Public Participation Dr Silvia Vundi, underscored that effective devolution depends on partnership rather than separation.
“Devolution does not mean separation; it requires partnership. The National Government and County Governments must work together in a spirit of cooperation, mutual respect, and shared responsibility for the welfare of our citizens,” said PS Lenasalon.
Established under Executive Order No. 2 of 2023, the State Department for Devolution coordinates intergovernmental relations, delivers capacity building and technical support to counties, and promotes civic education and public participation.
The Principal Secretary reaffirmed the department’s dedication to supporting counties in building robust governance systems, institutional capacity, and effective service delivery. “Our vision is simple but powerful: Accountable Devolution for Accountable Service Delivery,” he said.
Participants, including County Executive leaders, National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs), academia, youth leaders, opinion leaders, community-based organizations, and conveners from the State Department for Devolution, emphasised the importance of collaboration, partnership, and coordination between the two levels of government to minimize conflicts and strengthen devolution.
NGAO members specifically highlighted enforcement difficulties in liquor licensing, where county governments issue licenses while national government officers are tasked with enforcement.
They cited cases of licensed outlets operating near schools or residential areas, yet NGAOs face challenges in closing them due to the county-issued permits, creating enforcement gaps and community safety concerns.
Dr Vundi responded by stressing the importance of a clear understanding of roles to prevent disputes. “When everyone truly understands their functions, there’ll be no conflict,” she stated.
She illustrated the point with the distinction between the Assistant County Commissioner (ACC), a national government officer handling security and coordination at the divisional level, and the ward administrator, who is the primary link between the county executive and the local community.
Mombasa County Commissioner Mohamed Noor commended the State Department for Devolution for organizing the forum. “Devolution is one of the most transformative pillars of our governance system. It was established to ensure that government services are brought closer to the people, promote equitable development, and enhance public participation in decision-making,” said Noor.
He acknowledged progress in service delivery and termed the forum a vital platform to raise civic awareness, clarify the department’s mandate and programmes, and reinforce coordination between national and county governments.
The County Commissioner also urged participants to identify ways to strengthen institutional cooperation for the benefit of citizens.
“As leaders and stakeholders, we must continue to support devolution and strengthen systems that enhance accountability, transparency, and inclusive development,” he said.
By Sitati Reagan
