Makueni County in Kenya celebrated a historic moment as it hosted the first graduation ceremony of the Makueni School of Devolution and Community-led Development at its old County Treasury building off Wote-Makindu road. This event marked a crucial step in enhancing devolution capacities, with 35 students completing a comprehensive six-month training program, further fortifying their ability to implement devolved functions.
On March 16, 2023, Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jnr commissioned the school, emphasizing the imperative need to build devolution expertise to empower public servants for the effective execution of their duties. The pioneer cohort underwent intensive training in ten essential subjects, spanning Understanding Devolution and Localization of Sustainable Development Goals in Kenya, Community-led Development, Governance driven by communities, Climate action led by communities, Participatory Planning and Budgeting, Project Management techniques, Access to Information, Good Governance strategies, Social Accountability measures, and Development Communication methods.
The graduation ceremony was graced by Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili, Executive Committee Member, and Chief Officer of Devolution, along with directors from the Movement for Community-led Development. Deputy Governor Mulili commended the graduates, highlighting how their accomplishment not only enhances efficiency in implementation across various capacities within devolved units but also underscores its significance.
“As counties, we conduct all our activities within the devolved unit; thus, the graduation of these public servants marks a significant milestone. This notable achievement promises enhanced efficiency in various capacities of implementation,” declared Mulili.
In December, the Makueni School of Devolution will open applications, welcoming students not only from the public service but also from the general public and organized groups. This strategic move aims to broaden knowledge and skills related to devolution, with the ultimate goal of nurturing a culture where community-led development and governance thrive.
The graduation not only signifies a personal achievement for all 35 graduates but also emphasizes Makueni County’s commitment to nurturing a cadre of professionals well-equipped to navigate the intricate complexities of devolution and significantly contribute at local levels toward advancing sustainable development goals.