The Council of Governors (CoG) has officially unveiled the roadmap for the 2025 Devolution Conference, set to take place in Homa Bay from August 12 to 14. This bi-annual event serves as a vital platform to showcase the successes of devolution in Kenya while addressing existing challenges.
The previous Devolution Conference was held in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, in 2023. Speaking at the launch, CoG Vice Chairperson and Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “This is one of the most important tools to showcase Devolution in Kenya. Importantly, it serves as a platform for knowledge sharing to enhance the implementation of Devolution in Kenya.”
Governor Kahiga co-chairs the Multi-Agency Steering Committee responsible for planning and ensuring the success of the conference. This committee comprises representatives from key institutions, including the Council of Governors, the Office of the Deputy President (represented by the Principal Secretary for Devolution), the Senate, the County Assemblies Forum, the host county, the Youth Council, the Kenya Private Sector Alliance, and various community-based organizations.
The 2025 Devolution Conference will be held under the theme “For the People; For Prosperity: Devolution as a Catalyst for Equity, Inclusion, and Social Justice.” The sub-theme, “Re-engineering County Governments to Accelerate Development and Close the Socio-Economic Divide,” underscores the need for counties to leverage devolution to drive equitable development.
This year’s conference will introduce partner-led side events, aimed at enriching discussions and fostering collaboration among stakeholders. To ensure the quality and relevance of these side events, a scientific committee will be established to vet proposals from partners and interested parties.
Registration for participants is set to begin in March 2025. To enhance the experience for delegates, a state-of-the-art website and mobile application are under development. These digital platforms will provide essential conference logistics, schedules, and updates, ensuring seamless participation.
Additionally, Homa Bay County is preparing a range of cultural and tourism activities for delegates to enjoy during the conference. These activities will be accessible via the DEVCON website, offering visitors a taste of the county’s rich heritage and attractions.
The committee has approved the conference framework, theme colors, and budget to ensure a high-impact event. Governor Kahiga expressed confidence that the conference will provide an invaluable opportunity for learning, networking, and forging partnerships that will advance the devolution agenda in Kenya.
The 2025 Devolution Conference is expected to bring together state and non-state actors to deliberate on ways to strengthen county governments and enhance service delivery across the country. With a well-structured roadmap in place, the event promises to be a milestone in Kenya’s devolution journey.
