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Kara-UNDP Amkeni Wakenya Initiative
pillar aims to create an issue-based, people-centred, result-oriented, and accountable
democratic political system. 2 It is therefore expected that developmental devolved
governments should reflect their benefits to the local communities. They must also
lead to outcomes anticipated in the constitution and the Vision 2030 as expected
by citizens. 3
The necessity for a County blueprint
In order for the County governments to complement the national government in
achieving Vision 2030 objectives, they should prepare blueprints that will direct
their work and improve their program efficiency and effectiveness during the 2012-
2017 period.
A blueprint sets the County’s vision, mission, strategic objectives, strategies and
activities. Besides, it defines structures, staffing levels and financial resources
required for carrying out the County’s functions and mandate. In developing the
blueprint, a County will need to heed the experiences of other organizations that
have gone through the same process. In particular, a number of useful lessons can
be derived from other organizations in strategic planning and implementation.
Six lessons stand out as outlined below;
a) The need for timely development of blueprints
b) The importance of leadership in the implementation of the blueprint
c) The need to ensure adequate capacity for implementation
d) The need for a clear institutional framework for implementing the
strategies, particularly the coordination of activities that are likely to be
scattered in different implementing agencies.
e) The need for harmony between the blueprint, work plans and budgetary
provisions. This will minimize shifting of priorities and enhance efficiency and
effectiveness.
f) The need for a well institutionalized monitoring, evaluation and reporting
system.
Preparation of a blueprint requires participation of a whole range of stakeholders.
Extensive consultations and inclusion of a broad range of internal and external
stakeholders is very vital. While the primary data is obtained through consultations,
review of policy documents and sector-wide reports by the stakeholders, personal
2 Kenya Institute of Administration: Curriculum in Leadership Capacity Development for National and County
Governments
3 Republic of Kenya: Draft Session Paper on Devolved Governance in Kenya 2011
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Devolution and County Blueprints
Cross-Cutting Lessons