Kisumu: The Commission on Administrative Justice is actively collaborating with county governments to formulate access to information acts that cater to the specific needs of each of the 47 devolved units in the country. Commission Chairman Charles Orinda emphasized the necessity for County Assemblies to address the absence of these acts, which continues to impede Kenyans from accessing information on critical issues.
According to Kenya News Agency, Orinda highlighted that the commission is providing technical support and building capacity within county governments to develop laws tailored to local circumstances. This initiative aims to ensure that Kenyans can access information regarding the various programs managed by devolved units.
At the national level, there is an existing Access to Information Act, but Orinda pointed out the need for counties to adopt specific acts considering local conditions. This move is expected to empower citizens to request information and hold county governments accountable for providing information on various issues as mandated by law.
Orinda noted that not everyone can travel to Nairobi to report issues related to information requests from county governments. Therefore, having these laws in place will facilitate easier access to necessary information for the public.
During a spot check on the Social Health Authority (SHA) at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) in Kisumu, Orinda mentioned that county governments are implementing projects worth billions of shillings. Access to information on these projects and programs is essential for public engagement and oversight.
The chairman specifically mentioned large climate resilience projects being implemented through Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLOCA), stressing the importance of public awareness and involvement in building climate change resilience.
The commission's team visited Siaya Referral Hospital, JOOTRH, and several private and faith-based health facilities to assess the SHA's functionality. Similar assessments are being conducted in Nyandarua, Murang'a, Isiolo, and Nakuru. Following these exercises, the commission plans to release a comprehensive report on their findings.
Orinda clarified that the ongoing assessments aim to identify bottlenecks and issues affecting the smooth operation of the scheme, with a comprehensive statement to be issued post-evaluation.