Senators are set to convene in Nakuru for the 2025 Mid-Term Assessment and Planning Retreat from February 4 to February 7. The retreat will focus on critical issues concerning devolution, intergovernmental relations, and the implementation of the Taifa Care initiative, a key agenda for the Senate’s fourth session.
With the theme “Shaping the Senate’s Legacy: Reflections, Strategies, and the Path Forward,” the retreat aims to evaluate the Senate’s performance across its first three sessions. Key figures including Speaker Amason Kingi, Deputy Speaker Kathuri Murungi, Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, Minority Leader Stewart Madzayo, and other committee chairpersons will lead discussions. They will be joined by Cabinet Secretaries, the leadership of the Council of Governors, and chairpersons of relevant constitutional commissions, who will brief senators on the progress of devolution-related matters.
One of the primary topics to be discussed is the controversial county revenue sharing formula, a proposal by the Commission on Revenue Allocation (CRA). CRA Chairperson Mary Chebukati is expected to present the fourth-generation revenue allocation formula, which could spark debates among lawmakers. The proposed formula places greater emphasis on population size, with a 42% weight compared to the current 18%. Other factors like geographical size, equal share, and the poverty index will also contribute to how counties receive their share of national revenue. The formula’s changes have drawn mixed reactions, especially from leaders of less populous counties, making it a highly anticipated session.
Additionally, the senators will address pressing issues in health policy, particularly the implementation of the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023. Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Mulongo will update the Senate on the establishment of the Social Health Authority (SHA), which replaced the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF). While SHA aims to improve healthcare access, concerns over service quality, including long waiting times and inadequate staff, remain a significant challenge.
The retreat will also provide a platform to discuss strengthening Senate oversight mechanisms, legislative priorities for the upcoming fourth session, and members’ welfare. Senators will review their performance in committee work and reflect on strategies for improved service delivery.
Overall, this retreat offers an opportunity for senators to address the crucial challenges facing the Senate, devolution, and health systems, setting the stage for productive sessions in the year ahead.
