Bungoma County Public Participation and Civic Education Policy 2020

Abstract

Devolution and public participation are perhaps two of the most paradigmatic innovations of the Constitution of Kenya 2010. In Article 174(c), the Constitution states that one of the ‘objects of devolution are: “to enhance the participation of people in the exercise of the powers of the State and in making decisions affecting them.” Further, Article 184 (1) (c) requires that mechanisms for participation by residents be included in the national legislation relating to urban areas and cities governance and management. Thus, devolution gives powers of self-governance to the people and enhances their participation in decisions that affect them, as well recognize the rights of communities to manage their own affairs and further their development. This provision was meant to address marginalization, unequal distribution of the national resources and cascade the decision-making role to the general citizenry. The constitution provided for the radical overhaul of the governance architecture in Kenya by introducing new administrative structures, entrenching basic rights and freedoms, promoting the culture of constitutionalism and putting the citizens at the centre of governance and decision-making processes. Specifically, Article 10 (2) indicates that public participation is among the national values and principles of governance. It is in the light of the above constitutional provisions that the County Government of Bungoma is so proud to put into place the Public Participation Policy in order to serve our people and include them in their governance and provision of services. The development of this policy will go a long way in ensuring that public participation in Bungoma County becomes the linchpin that the Constitution of Kenya 2010 intended. As a county government, we will put into place mechanisms and funding to mainstream public participation in every ministry and department. We also commit to ensuring effective coordination between the executive, the County Assembly, Non-State Actors, and development partners as we seek involve our citizens in the affairs of their County Government.