Devolution was envisioned as a bold step toward bringing government closer to the people, giving local leaders the power to shape development from the ground up. Agriculture, the backbone of Kenya’s economy and the livelihood of over 70 percent of the population, was among the sectors earmarked for transformation through this shift. More than a decade later, however, the sector still struggles to realise the promise of devolution.
Critical support services such as agricultural extension, veterinary care, irrigation, and market access remain weak. Farmers, pastoralists, and fisherfolk continue to face barriers that could otherwise be resolved through strong county-level leadership and effective collaboration with the national government. One of the biggest challenges has been the weak coordination between counties and the national government, as well as among counties themselves.
Structures such as the County Agriculture Sector Steering Committees (CASSCOMs) were designed to harmonise efforts, bring together public and private investments, and monitor progress. Yet in many places, these committees are dormant or ineffective. As a result, projects remain fragmented, opportunities for innovation are missed, and monitoring and evaluation are rarely done. Strengthening these committees and fostering accountability across all levels of government is critical if devolution is to unlock its full potential.
Another barrier lies in the persistence of CESS fees on goods moving across county borders. These levies discourage inter-county trade, reduce agricultural productivity, and undermine food security. Counties must harmonise trade policies and remove artificial barriers that weaken the very farmers they are meant to empower.
At the same time, climate change and environmental degradation present new threats. Erratic rainfall, prolonged droughts, and soil depletion demand urgent action. Counties need to adopt a whole-landscape approach to agriculture that integrates sustainable practices, ecological principles, and climate-smart solutions. Such an approach would not only ensure resilience today but also safeguard food systems for future generations.
Ultimately, devolution must live up to its true essence: empowering local communities. Farmers, pastoralists, and fisherfolk should not just be beneficiaries of aid but active participants in shaping policies and decisions that affect their livelihoods. By building inclusive governance structures and fostering stronger coordination, counties can catalyse agricultural growth, boost food security, and promote equitable prosperity across Kenya.
The moment to act is now. Devolution offers a powerful pathway to transform agriculture, secure livelihoods, and ensure a sustainable and just food future for all.
