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Decentralization and Poverty Reduction: Opportunities and Challenges in Kenya

Author

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  • Erol BULUT
  • Bashir Ismail ABDOW

Abstract

Kenya is the newest to join a growing number of countries opting for decentralization over centralization. Aimed to promote democracy, national unity, self-governance, equitable sharing of resources and creating checks and balances and the separation of powers; devolution in Kenya comes with massive expectations in a country that have failed to achieve its potentials. There exist challenges such as persistence of the old system, growing recurrent expenditure, shortage of qualified manpower, reported cases of corruption and lack of active local participation. Despite these challenges, a supportive constitution, vibrant civil society, and the democratic political structure of the country provide opportunities for devolution to succeed in Kenya.

Suggested Citation

  • Erol BULUT & Bashir Ismail ABDOW, 2018. "Decentralization and Poverty Reduction: Opportunities and Challenges in Kenya," Sosyoekonomi Journal, Sosyoekonomi Society, issue 26(36).
    • Handle: RePEc:sos:sosjrn:180210
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Crook,Richard C. & Manor,James, 1998. "Democracy and Decentralisation in South Asia and West Africa," Cambridge Books, Cambridge University Press, number 9780521636476.
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    3. Galasso, Emanuela & Ravallion, Martin, 2005. "Decentralized targeting of an antipoverty program," Journal of Public Economics, Elsevier, vol. 89(4), pages 705-727, April.
    4. World Bank, 2008. "An Evaluation of Bank Support for Decentralization in Client Countries," World Bank Publications - Reports 10595, The World Bank Group.
    5. Kent Eaton & Kai Kaiser & Paul J. Smoke, 2011. "The Political Economy of Decentralization Reforms : Implications for Aid Effectiveness," World Bank Publications - Books, The World Bank Group, number 2336, December.
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • H72 - Public Economics - - State and Local Government; Intergovernmental Relations - - - State and Local Budget and Expenditures
    • H76 - Public Economics - - State and Local Government; Intergovernmental Relations - - - Other Expenditure Categories

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