All eyes on Homa Bay as Ruto leads high-stakes devolution talks
By Kiprono Keileb, August 13, 2025Homa Bay takes the national spotlight on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, as President William Ruto officially opens the ninth Devolution Conference, setting the stage for a week of high-level discussions that could shape the future of Kenya’s devolved system.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is set to deliver the keynote address tomorrow, Thursday, August 14, 2025, bringing together two of the country’s most influential political figures at the same venue.
The biennial forum brings together national and county leaders, development partners, and citizens to reflect on and assess the progress of devolution since its inception in 2013. This year’s theme, “For the People, For Prosperity: Devolution as a Catalyst for Equity, Inclusion and Social Justice”, reflects a renewed focus on tackling regional disparities and ensuring every county benefits from the national development agenda.
For the Senate, the conference offers a prime opportunity to advance its oversight and legislative priorities. Central to the agenda will be debates on fair revenue sharing, transparent governance, and meaningful public participation, all aimed at empowering counties as engines of inclusive growth.
The programme will unfold over three main thematic days. On Wednesday, August 13, 2025, sessions will spotlight good governance, with leaders examining transparency, accountability, civic education, and the rule of law, crucial pillars for ensuring counties manage resources efficiently and deliver quality services.
On Thursday, August 14, 2025, the focus shifts to human rights and social justice. Delegates will explore how county governments can embed economic, social, political, and cultural rights into their development strategies. The aim is to address long-standing inequalities and close the gap between underserved communities and national progress.
On Friday, August 15, 2025, discussions themed Financing Equity and Inclusion will focus on ensuring fair revenue allocation and expanding access to finance for entrepreneurs, with a particular emphasis on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This is seen as a critical pathway to revitalising grassroots economies and creating sustainable employment.
Beyond the plenary sessions, Homa Bay has been buzzing with pre-conference activities since Saturday, ranging from a marathon and cultural exhibitions to a grand concert celebrating the county’s vibrant heritage. Exhibition stands are showcasing county innovations and partnerships driving devolution success stories.
The event will wrap up with a joint communiqué outlining actionable resolutions. The Senate is expected to spearhead the process of translating these commitments into tangible legislative and policy changes.
With Deputy President Kithure Kindiki set to officially close the conference on Friday, August 13, 2025, expectations are high that the Homa Bay gathering will mark a turning point for Kenya’s devolution journey, steering the country toward equity, inclusion, and shared prosperity.