The role of information in public participation for grassroots development in counties in Kenya

Abstract

This article analyzes the role of information in direct public participation for grassroots development in Kenya’s devolved government structure of 47 counties. The author reviewed relevant laws, research and government reports, and journals focusing on forms of and information dissemination channels for citizen participation, and information as a tool for participatory grassroots development in counties in Kenya. Findings established that the public in Kenya can directly participate in the planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of development projects, budget preparation, law and policy making. This participation is done through public hearings, petitions and memoranda submitted to county executives and legislatures. To disseminate information to citizens, county governments use print, broadcast and new media, notice boards, and public hearings. The information raises citizens’ awareness, political consciousness and mobilization needed for participatory grassroots development. An informed citizenry is core to participatory development. However, the public has limited access to information and direct participatory development in counties in Kenya is low. This may be attributed to gaps in information dissemination by county governments and citizens’ reluctance to seek information. This implies that county governments need to improve their information dissemination efforts; citizens should demand for access to and use of information.