Kenya's constitutional reform in 2010 introduced a devolved governance system implemented in 2013, establishing Elgeyo-Marakwet County as one of Kenya's 47 counties. Devolution transferred significant powers and resources from central government to counties, enabling local control over priorities including health, education, water, agriculture, and local infrastructure. This represented fundamental restructuring of governance and service delivery.
Elgeyo-Marakwet County government has developed strategic plans addressing agricultural development, water resource management, particularly regarding the Kerio Valley and irrigation systems, land issues, and increasingly, running tourism and athletic infrastructure. The establishment of devolved government created opportunities for community participation through county assemblies and ward representatives. Electoral contests for the governorship have become major political events, with candidates emphasizing development promises and patronage distribution. Devolution has presented challenges including limited initial institutional capacity, revenue collection difficulties, and coordination issues with national government. County assembly debates frequently address agricultural issues, water management, infrastructure development, and education. Running and athletics have emerged as new county development priorities, with government investments in training infrastructure and athlete support. The county government has increasingly engaged in sports tourism promotion. Devolution remains an ongoing institutional development process with continuous refinement of county-national government relationships.
See Also
Luhya, Kalenjin, Kikuyu, Conservation, Conservation Timeline
Sources
- Elgeyo-Marakwet County Government. (2023). "County Integrated Development Plan 2023-2027". https://www.emck.go.ke/
- Kipchoge, E. & Kipkorir, B. (2019). "Devolution and Governance in Kenya's Running Communities". Journal of Eastern African Studies, 13(3), 345-367. https://doi.org/10.1080/17531055.2018
- Institute of Social Accountability. (2020). "County Governance Performance: Western Kenya". https://www.isa.or.ke/