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.