Operationalization of the Devolution Sector Working Group (DSWG) Thematic Teams.

The State Department for Devolution today operationalized the Devolution Sector Working Group (DSWG) Thematic Teams, marking a key step in strengthening Kenya’s devolved system of governance.
The thematic teams will improve coordination, encourage shared learning, and strengthen collaboration among stakeholders across priority areas in the devolution sector.
Speaking during the meeting, Principal Secretary for Devolution, Michael Loikenu Lenasalon, emphasized the critical role of the teams in guiding policy direction, strengthening accountability, and supporting effective implementation of devolution at both national and county levels. He noted the importance of multi-agency collaboration in addressing the evolving and increasingly complex devolution landscape.
PS Lenasalon also highlighted the need to shift focus from policy formulation to implementation of impactful programs and interventions, particularly amid the shrinking fiscal space affecting the sector. He further underscored the value of documenting and scaling up successful county initiatives through peer learning and knowledge-sharing.
The operationalized thematic areas include:
- Institutional Framework and Governance
- Fiscal and Financial Management
- Service Delivery and Performance Management
- Research and Innovation
The meeting brought together representatives from the National and County Governments, civil society organizations, MDAs, and our development partners, including GIZ,German International Cooperation, who sponsored the meeting, the United Nations Development Programme - UNDP, the World Bank Group, and the European Union, who all reaffirmed their commitment to supporting sustainable and accountable devolution in Kenya. 
The meeting was attended by senior leadership from the State Department for Devolution including Director of Administration Justine Nelima, Director of Partnerships and Intergovernmental Relations Lesley Khayadi, Director of Human Resource Management and Development Jayne Asuma, Director of Economic Planning Dr. Jackson Otieno, National Program Coordinator for KDSP II Dr. Samuel Nyaga, Head of Civic Education and Public Participation Dr. Silvia Vundi, and Head of Intergovernmental Relations John Kunga among other staff members.