The State Department for Devolution, in collaboration with key stakeholders in the devolution space in Kenya, has convened an Induction Retreat at the Kenya School of Government, Lower Kabete.
The event brings together local government officials from across East Africa to discuss and collaborate on regional issues of importance, particularly focusing on positioning local governments as drivers for East African Community (EAC) regional integration.
The retreat was officially opened by the Acting Director General of the Kenya School of Government, Prof. Nura Mohamed, and the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Devolution, Ms. Teresia Mbaika. In his welcome address, Prof. Mohamed highlighted the Kenya School of Government’s 100th anniversary since its inception, emphasizing its century of experience and wealth of knowledge to share.
“There is a need to develop a globally competitive and adaptable human resource base tailored to meet the demands of a swiftly industrializing economy, particularly within the East African communities,” Prof. Mohamed said. He urged participants to come up with transformative programs that will change the face of the East African Community.
The retreat aims to provide a platform for local government officials to collaborate on issues such as regional integration, economic development, and shared prosperity among East African countries. With the Director of Devolution Studies, Dr. Tom Wanyama, among the participants, the event has attracted experts and thought leaders in the field of devolution and regional governance.
The focus on positioning local governments as key players in EAC regional integration aligns with the broader goals of promoting cooperation and addressing common challenges faced by local governments in the region.
The Induction Retreat at the Kenya School of Government is a promising initiative that could lead to meaningful outcomes, fostering unity, sharing best practices, and advancing the East African Community’s development and integration.
Participants are expected to engage in productive discussions, share insights, and strategize on collaborative efforts that will contribute to the advancement of the East African Community and its member countries.
The retreat’s agenda includes panel discussions, workshops, and networking sessions aimed at strengthening ties among local government officials, promoting cooperation, and driving forward the vision of a united and prosperous East African Community.