Devolution of power and the control of corruption in Kenya (2010-2019)

Abstract

Corruption in Kenya remains prevalent despite concerted national efforts to fight the vice. The devolution process was aimed at among things to control corruption. Bureaucratic corruption at lower levels of governance in Kenya is still persistent, perpetuating inequality in access to public services. Whereas devolution is supposed to enhance service delivery and development at the county level by bringing resources close to the people and enhancing the right to self-governance, corruption poses a big threat to Kenya's devolution objectives of improving people's living standards. This research paper aimed at critically examining the impact of devolution on corruption in Kenya. The first objective of the paper was to explain the anti-corruption reasons for devolving power in Kenya. The second was to examine the mechanisms/measures used by the devolution reforms to control corruption. And thirdly, to discuss the challenges facing devolution efforts to combat corruption in Kenya.

The study being library-based research adopted a qualitative method of investigation, which used qualitative document review approach by basing on secondary data and this enabled me to review the available literature in order to obtain the necessary information. This enabled the researcher to go to libraries several times reviewing documents related to the impact of devolution on corruption in Kenya. It was revealed that Corruption in Kenya remains prevalent despite concerted national devolutionary efforts to fight the vice. While notable success has been achieved in eliminating corruption, bureaucratic corruption at lower levels of governance is still persistent, perpetuating inequality in access to public services.

The study recommends that countries like Kenya should enhance internal risk control measures through establishment of an effective whistle blowing mechanisms and embrace technological development to enhance detection and prevention of financial fraud and embezzlement, through reporting and proper, timely and accurate accounting. The duties and responsibilities of the directors should be clearly specified and aligned to the corporate objectives so that the directors do not expropriate public funds bestowed upon them by the tax payers.