The landmark event is scheduled for Thursday, April 9, at the Assembly Chambers located at City Hall in Nairobi.
According to communication from the President’s Chief of Staff, Felix Koskei, the address will begin at 2:30 pm following an official invitation by Members of the County Assembly (MCAs).
According to communication from the President’s Chief of Staff, Felix Koskei, the address will begin at 2:30 pm following an official invitation by Members of the County Assembly (MCAs).
The MCAs have also been asked to submit briefs and key issues they would like the President to address during his speech.
This upcoming address comes just weeks after the signing of the National Government–Nairobi County Cooperation Pact at State House.
This upcoming address comes just weeks after the signing of the National Government–Nairobi County Cooperation Pact at State House.
The agreement has sparked widespread debate among leaders and residents, with questions raised about its impact on devolution and governance in the capital city.
The pact aims to enhance collaboration between the national and county governments, particularly in addressing long-standing challenges in infrastructure, service delivery, and urban planning within Nairobi.
The pact aims to enhance collaboration between the national and county governments, particularly in addressing long-standing challenges in infrastructure, service delivery, and urban planning within Nairobi.
However, critics argue that the arrangement could potentially shift control of key county functions to the national government, raising concerns about the erosion of devolved powers.
Despite the criticism, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has strongly defended the cooperation agreement.
Despite the criticism, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has strongly defended the cooperation agreement.
He maintains that the framework is designed to improve efficiency and eliminate duplication of roles between the two levels of government.
Mudavadi emphasized that the partnership provides a structured approach to planning and implementation of projects, ensuring that services are delivered in a more coordinated and effective manner.
Mudavadi emphasized that the partnership provides a structured approach to planning and implementation of projects, ensuring that services are delivered in a more coordinated and effective manner.
He added that the agreement does not undermine devolution but instead strengthens collaboration for the benefit of Nairobi residents.
The cooperation framework is backed by a significant financial commitment of approximately Ksh80 billion, which will be used to fund various urban transformation projects across the city.
The cooperation framework is backed by a significant financial commitment of approximately Ksh80 billion, which will be used to fund various urban transformation projects across the city.
These projects are expected to improve roads, housing, drainage systems, and other essential services.
The President’s address will take place shortly after the Nairobi County Assembly resumes its sittings following the Easter recess.
The President’s address will take place shortly after the Nairobi County Assembly resumes its sittings following the Easter recess.
Analysts believe the timing is strategic, as it offers an opportunity for the Head of State to directly engage with county lawmakers and clarify the government’s agenda for the city.
Since the introduction of devolution in 2010, no Kenyan president—past or present—has addressed any of the country’s 47 county assemblies.
Since the introduction of devolution in 2010, no Kenyan president—past or present—has addressed any of the country’s 47 county assemblies.
This makes Ruto’s planned appearance not only symbolic but also a significant shift in the relationship between the national government and county institutions.
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