The process to dissolve six regional development authorities in Kenya has begun, with the National Assembly Committee on Regional Development commencing public participation on the proposed Development Authorities Laws (Repeal) Bill, 2026. The bill, sponsored by Leader of the Majority Party Kimani Ichungw’a, seeks to abolish the authorities and transfer their assets, debts, contracts, and staff to the National Treasury and the Public Service Commission (PSC).
The six regional development authorities slated for dissolution are the Coast Development Authority (CDA), Kerio Valley Development Authority (KVDA), Lake Basin Development Authority (LBDA), Tana and Athi Rivers Development Authority (Tarda), Ewaso Ng'iro South Development Authority, and Ewaso Ng'iro North Development Authority. According to Sigor MP Peter Lochakapong’, who chairs the committee, the repeal aims to wind up institutions that have fulfilled their mandates and align national development functions with the Fourth Schedule of the Constitution.
The proposed law aims to ease pressure on the national budget, improve efficiency, accountability, and service delivery through consolidation under existing institutions. If enacted, the National Treasury and PSC will absorb the major operations, staff, and balance sheets of the six regional development authorities. The committee will conduct public participation in various counties, starting with Elgeyo Marakwet, Isiolo, and Narok counties on October 9.
The bill provides that the authorities have carried out their mandates, and abolishing them will align the roles of national and county governments to the Fourth Schedule of the Constitution. The bill also outlines the transfer of assets, debts, obligations, and contracts of each authority to the State Department for the National Treasury. All loans, credit facilities, and securities will continue to be valid and managed by the National Treasury.
Employees of the authorities will be transferred to become employees of the PSC on terms and conditions not less favorable than before. Their years of service will be deemed continuous for purposes of pension, gratuity, and other retirement benefits. The Cabinet Secretary will issue directives on the transfer of assets, rights, and obligations within 30 days of the Act's commencement.
The public has been urged to submit their views and suggestions on the bill by proposing deletions, retaining or adding new provisions. Orders and notices made under the repealed laws will continue in force unless amended or revoked by the Cabinet Secretary. The bill was first read in the National Assembly in July and transmitted to the committee for public participation as per the Constitution.
The dissolution of the six regional development authorities is expected to have significant implications for Kenya's development landscape. The move is anticipated to reduce pressure on the national budget and improve service delivery.
Key points
- The proposed law aims to ease pressure on the national budget and improve efficiency, accountability, and service delivery.
- The six regional development authorities slated for dissolution include the Coast Development Authority (CDA), Kerio Valley Development Authority (KVDA), and Lake Basin Development Authority (LBDA).
- Employees of the authorities will be transferred to become employees of the PSC on terms and conditions not less favorable than before.
