Public Participation and Civic Education Policy

5 years ago by Onyari Nyakundi. PhD

The division of Public Participation, Civic Education, and Citizen Engagement was created by executive order number one of Governor Susan Kihika of Nakuru County, in conformity with the 2010 Constitution and the governor's manifesto that underscores the importance of involving residents in governance matters. This new division, part of the Department of Public Service, Administration, Devolution, Disaster Management, and Humanitarian Assistance, aims to enhance citizen engagement. 

Devolution and public participation are key innovations of the 2010 Constitution of Kenya. Article 174(c) states that devolution aims to enhance people's participation in exercising state powers and making decisions affecting them. Article 184(1)(c) requires mechanisms for resident participation in urban and city governance and management. These provisions empower citizens, address marginalization, and promote equal resource distribution, recognizing communities' rights to manage their affairs and further their development. The Constitution overhauled Kenya's governance, introducing new structures, entrenching basic rights and freedoms, promoting constitutionalism, and centering citizens in governance and decision-making processes. Article 10(2) identifies public participation as a national value and principle of governance.

In light of these constitutional provisions, the County Government of Nakuru is proud to implement the Public Participation Policy to serve and include residents in governance and service provision. This policy ensures that public participation becomes the linchpin intended by the 2010 Constitution. The county government will establish mechanisms and funding to mainstream public participation across all departments and ensure effective coordination among the executive, County Assembly, Non-State Actors, and development partners.

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