Garissa County Assembly Speaker Abdi Idle Gure has called for a stronger role for county assemblies in advancing devolution and regional integration.
Mr. Idle urged closer collaboration between County Assembly Speakers and the Council of Governors (CoG) to improve oversight, legislation and service delivery.
He was a keynote speaker during the Fourth Devolution Sensitization Week in Garissa, Gure said county assemblies should be fully involved in shaping policies that affect devolved governance.
The Assembly leader appealed for the inclusion of County Assembly Speakers in the governance structures of the Frontier Counties Development Council (FCDC), arguing that their participation would strengthen legislative ownership, accountability and regional integration among frontier counties.
The week-long forum, held under the theme “Devolution for Better Health; Empowered Communities,” was officially opened by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale. CS Duale reaffirmed the national government’s commitment to supporting counties in delivering devolved health services.
Mr. Gure said devolution has transformed Garissa by bringing government services closer to residents. He cited the establishment of Dadaab, Balambala, Bura East, Modogashe and Masalani municipalities, adding that the creation of Hulugho Municipality is progressing after the completion of public participation.
He emphasized that devolution goes beyond transferring functions from the national government to counties.
The Assembly leader said the ultimate goal is to improve people’s lives through equitable access to public services, inclusive governance and sustainable local development.
The county assembly boss said healthy communities are central to sustainable development, stressing the importance of investments in healthcare, water, roads, food security and economic opportunities.
Mr. Gure also reaffirmed the County Assembly’s constitutional role in legislation, representation and oversight.
“The assembly continues to strengthen governance through approving county budgets, establishing municipalities and vetting municipal boards.”
Garissa Governor Nathif Jama Adam, Mombasa Governor and Council of Governors Health Committee Chairperson Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir, Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi, Wajir Deputy Governor Ahmed Muhumed, Mandera Deputy Governor Dr. Ali Maalim, West Pokot Deputy Governor Robert Komolle, Wajir Senator Abass Sheikh, Garissa Township MP Dekow Barrow, Sigor MP Peter Lochakapong, Principal Secretary for Devolution Michael Loikenu Lenasalon, CoG CEO Mary Mwiti, Members of County Assemblies, county executives and representatives of development partners attended the The Fourth Devolution Sensitization Week forum.
