Following the successful conclusion of the inaugural County Peer Review Mechanism (CPRM) Summit on August 7, 2024, which brought together a distinguished 13 Governors and high level representation from 15 other Counties from across the country, the momentum for the second phase of CPRM is gaining ground.
The summit, held for the 12 pilot counties, brought together 13 Governors from across the country and fostered an environment of reviewing CPRM reports, sharing best practices, and identifying areas where service delivery could be enhanced.
As the second phase progresses, the NEPAD/APRM Kenya Secretariat has shifted focus to scaling up training and capacity-building exercises for county government officials. Today: November 12, 2024, the Secretariat held a training session for County Directors from Laikipia, Murang’a, Nyandarua, Kirinyaga, Embu, Kericho, Kiambu, Tharaka Nithi, and Baringo counties.
In his opening remarks the Chief Executive Officer, NEPAD/APRM Kenya Secretariat, Amb. Dr. Samori Okwiya noted the importance of involving local communities in the governance process.
Chief Executive Officer, NEPAD/APRM Kenya Secretariat, Amb. Dr. Samori Okwiya giving his opening remarks during the training
Subsequently, Mr. Peter Kimemia, the Director APRM & Governance covered the core principles and values of good governance, with a particular focus on upholding Article 10 of the Kenyan Constitution. This article outlines fundamental values such as inclusivity, equity, transparency, and accountability, all of which are essential for effective governance and public service delivery.
Mr. Kimemia provided a comprehensive overview of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), which serves as the inspiration for the CPRM. He outlined how the county-level peer review process is designed to foster greater accountability by allowing counties to learn from one another’s experiences, strengths, and challenges. The focus on peer learning creates an environment where counties are not only accountable to their own citizens but also to each other, enhancing the collective capacity for governance across Kenya’s 47 counties. Additionally, the training provided an opportunity to introduce the specific tools and methodologies necessary for the effective implementation of the CPRM.
Director APRM & Governance Mr. Peter Kimemia giving a presentation on principles and values of good governance
The participants expressed confidence that CPRM will improve governance in their counties. Consequently, the engagement of county officials in the process was seen as critical in ensuring that CPRM aligns with local priorities and challenges, ultimately leading to enhanced service delivery for citizens.
In conclusion, CPRM represents a vital step forward in Kenya’s journey towards more effective, inclusive, and accountable governance.
Family photo of participants from Laikipia, Murang’a, Nyandarua, Kirinyaga, Embu, Kericho, Kiambu, Tharaka Nithi, and Baringo counties.