By Yoga David
Governor Anyang Nyong’o has called on the county assembly leaders to recommit to ethical leadership and responsive governance to fulfill the promise of devolution in Kenya.
He spoke at Ciala Resort in Kisumu during a leadership training session convened by the Local Governance Institute and Great Lakes University, Kisumu.
The governor delivered a public lecture on “Deepening Devolution through Ethical Leadership and Responsive Governance in Kenya” to the speakers and members of the county assemblies from Kisumu, Kisii, Siaya, Homabay, and Migori.
“County Assemblies were established as pillars of representative democracy not only to legislate but also to provide oversight, promote transparency, and ensure equitable development,” he said.
He emphasized the critical role of ethical leadership, rooted in integrity, transparency, and accountability, as the foundation of good governance.
He cited international examples from Rwanda, Sweden, and New Zealand by urging the leaders to go beyond transactional politics and instead pursue transformational leadership that puts citizens first.
“It must not be lost on us that public office is public trust,” he reminded the leaders.
He also challenged the leaders to fully exercise their legislative and oversight roles by holding the executive accountable and amplifying the citizens’ voices.
Governor Nyong’o also highlighted the importance of regional collaboration through the Lake Region Economic Bloc (LREB), noting that there are shared challenges and opportunities among the counties.
“We, the counties of Kisumu. Siaya, Homa Bay, and Migori share not only a geographical space but a common destiny. Our cultures are intertwined, our economies are linked, and our challenges are shared,” he said.
He proposed key strategies to strengthen devolution, including capacity building for county leaders, enhanced citizen engagement through initiatives like the Huduma Mashinani, leveraging technology for transparency, and a legal framework for accountability.
Addressing modern challenges such as climate change, unemployment, and digital disruptions, he urged leaders to embrace innovation, support inclusive policies, and champion the involvement of the youth, women, and persons living with disabilities
“In today’s world, the challenges are evolving, from pandemics to climate change, from youth unemployment to digital disruption.” He said
“Just last week, they consigned me to life hereafter on digital platforms, but thank God I am still here to address you,” he further added.
The governor concluded by calling on the leaders to leave a lasting legacy by building institutions, restoring dignity to public service, and deepening meaningful participation.
“Together we can build counties that are prosperous, peaceful, and proud that stand as shining examples of what devolution can achieve when guided by ethical, visionary, and responsive leadership,” he said
The public lecture was also attended by Deputy Governor Dr. Mathew Owili, Kisumu County Assembly Speaker Hon. Elisha Oraro, Kisii County Assembly Speaker Dr. Philip Nyanumba, GLUK Vice Chancellor Prof. Hazel Mumbo, Kisumu County Assembly Majority Leader Kennedy Ooko, Ms. Serah Mwangi of the Local Governance Institute, amongst other representatives.