The genesis, evolution and development of local Government in Bungoma County, Kenya 1895-1978

Abstract

This is a study of the genesis, evolution and development of local government in Bungoma County from 1895 to 1978. Local governments in Kenya are important propellants of development. They have undergone a series of transformation since the colonial period. However, Specific objectives of the study were; to analyse the precolonial systems of government in Bungoma County; to establish the British conquest and the genesis of local government in Bungoma County, 1895-1924; to examine the successes of local government in social, economic and political developments in Bungoma County, 1925-1978 and finally to assess the challenges that faced local government in Bungoma County, 1925-1978. The study employed two theories; namely the Max Weber’s bureaucracy and the agency theory. Research methodology was guided by the theme of the study therefore, historical research design was used. The research was qualitative, primary and secondary data was collected. The first category of primary data involved oral interviews. Purposive and snowball sampling were used to identify respondents. The second category of primary data comprised archival information. Secondary sources included books, journals, theses, dissertations, seminar papers, government reports, and magazines. Information contained in the above documents was scrutinized and relevant items extracted for assimilation of the research report. Descriptive data analysis, interpretation and narration were the basis in the writing of the report. In chapter two, political leadership provided a number of services such as administration of justice, security and religion. In chapter 3, the coming of colonialism to Kenya led to a new type of local governance, indirect rule. The office of chief was created after the enactment of the Native Authority Acts of 1902 and 1912. A number of chiefs such as Namachanja wa Khisa, Sudi, Murunga among others were empowered by the colonial government to play various roles such as maintenance of law and order, collection of taxes, restricting the brewing of busaa and chang’aa among other functions. In chapter 4, LNCs played a number of functions such as provision of social services and promoting economic developments. However, the study established a number of challenges that faced LNCs in Bungoma. Challenges included, financial constraints, constant interference from the central government just to mention but a few. In chapter 5, ADCs played important roles in terms of social, economic and political development. ADC had a number of challenges including insufficient finance, ethnic balkanization in the council and under-utilization of resources such as land. In chapter six, it was found out that, in early years of Kenya’s independence, the council contributed in the social and economic development of Bungoma. However, the council faced a number of challenges during the Kenyatta era which led to a decline in terms of service delivery. By 1978, Bungoma County Council just like many county councils in Kenya had lost its relevance. Consequently, the study contributes to the historiography of local government in Kenya.