Kenya has taken a significant step toward transforming grassroots governance following the national validation forum for the Draft National Government Village Administration Policy and its accompanying regulations. The high-level forum, held in Nairobi on Wednesday, was presided over by Interior and National Administration Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo and brought together stakeholders from national and county governments, civil society, faith-based organizations, community leaders, and members of the public.
Dr. Omollo described the forum as a milestone in efforts to streamline local administration structures and enhance service delivery across the country. He praised the progress made over the past two years in reforming local governance, highlighting achievements such as professionalizing the National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs), modernizing the police service, and creating new administrative units.
“If I were to exit public service today, I would do so with my head held high,” Dr. Omollo said. “These reforms are not mere policy artifacts but enduring legacies that will transform governance at the grassroots for generations.”
The proposed policy aims to integrate village administration into the national security framework, while also strengthening conflict resolution, community planning, and service delivery. Dr. Omollo noted that the welfare of grassroots officers chiefs, assistant chiefs, and village elders has significantly improved, with better training, remuneration, and support enabling them to serve citizens with dignity and integrity.
He emphasized the importance of public participation in shaping the policy, citing extensive engagement through town halls, digital platforms, and workshops. “Today’s validation exercise is not just a formality. It is a moment of consensus building to ensure these instruments technically and legally reflect the wishes of Kenyans,” he remarked.
Dr. Omollo also expressed gratitude to civil society for their advocacy on behalf of vulnerable populations, and to development partners and the private sector for their support in the drafting process.
The validation forum marks a critical phase in implementing a people-centered approach to grassroots governance, underscoring the government’s commitment to responsive, inclusive, and sustainable local administration.
