Iten:Residents from five North Rift counties have expressed strong opposition to the proposed dissolution of the Kerio Valley Development Authority (KVDA). They argue that dismantling the agency would undo years of progress in peace, economic development, and food security.
According to Kenya News Agency, during a public participation hearing led by the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Regional Development in Iten, stakeholders from Baringo, West Pokot, Turkana, Samburu, and Elgeyo Marakwet rejected the Regional Development Authorities Laws (Repeal) Bill, 2026. They suggested that instead of disbanding KVDA, parliament should amend the KVDA Act to align with the Constitution.
Residents warned that transferring KVDA’s assets and management to the National Treasury would undermine devolution and reduce the region’s share of national resources, potentially reigniting resource-based conflicts among pastoralist communities.
Lawrence Ekatapan from Turkana drew comparisons to the National Government Constituencies Development Fund, urging Members of Parliament to defend regional authorities. He reminded the committee that regional bodies were established to develop marginalized areas neglected by past national investment strategies.
Mike Meut, Chairman of the Weiwei Irrigation Scheme, argued against claims that KVDA’s roles overlap with county governments, stating that KVDA complements county efforts. He highlighted the success of the Weiwei Irrigation Scheme in providing jobs and boosting food security.
Milka Platum from West Pokot shared her experience with a KVDA-established honey processing factory, which transformed reformed youth from cattle rustling to honey production, improving security and economic empowerment for local women through steady income.
Residents pointed out that while the Bill ensures permanent staff absorption by the Public Service Commission, it overlooks the casual workers, farmers, and traders whose livelihoods depend on KVDA projects. The authority’s water projects have been crucial in preventing water-driven conflicts by providing water for domestic and livestock use.
Former KVDA Managing Director David Kimosop emphasized that regional authorities like KVDA can operate independently and lessen the burden on the National Treasury. He noted that KVDA Plaza in Eldoret generates significant rental income, and called for the Turkwel Power Generating Project to be returned to KVDA to fund local development.
Kimosop also mentioned KVDA’s initiative to supply farmers with mango seedlings, which could boost fruit production and attract investment in local fruit processing.
