Senators convened in Naivasha for the midterm assessment retreat, days after members of the National Assembly concluded a similar meeting in the area.
Senators assembled to make an assessment and evaluate the performance and achievements of the Upper House in the first three sessions of the 13th Parliament as the Senate prepares to begin its fourth session on Tuesday, February 11, 2025.
The retreat, themed "Shaping the Senate’s Legacy: Reflections, Strategies and the Path Forward," brought together senators and key stakeholders to evaluate the Senate’s performance over the past three sessions and strategies for the upcoming Fourth Session, which officially begins on February 11, 2025.
Clerk of the Senate Jeremiah Nyegenye said the purpose of the engagement is primarily to make an assessment and evaluate the performance and achievements of the Senate in the first three sessions since the commencement of the 13th Parliament.
“It is worthwhile to take stock of the activities that have been realised so far, the challenges encountered, and the opportunities that lie ahead for improvement in the coming session,” he said.
Nyegenye said the mid-term period of a parliamentary term is often the most critical in shaping its output and legacy.
“With the conclusion of the Third Session, the Fourth Session presents an opportunity for the Senate to build on the momentum of the past year and solidify its legacy through impactful legislative and oversight work,” he said.
He said key areas for deliberation will include a review of the performance and output of the Senate in Plenary and in Committees during the first three Sessions, the proposed Fourth Basis for Revenue Sharing among County Governments for Financial Years 2025/2026–2029/2030, and implementation of the health laws, among others.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi said the three-day retreat, which ended on Friday, must focus on legislation that directly impacts counties—especially financing and revenue sharing.
“The upcoming debate on the Fourth Basis for Revenue Allocation should not just be another routine discussion; it should be a defining moment in how resources are distributed fairly and equitably across counties,” he explained.
Kingi urged Senators to take the lead in ensuring the success of devolution by enacting key legislation to support its implementation.
He warned against absenteeism, which he noted has negatively impacted House proceedings in the past.
He acknowledged the challenges that have hindered the process, including inadequate financing and delayed disbursement of funds, but commended Senators for their efforts in ensuring that Kenyans continue to benefit from devolved governance.
Deputy Speaker Kathuri Murungi urged Senate Committees to submit the names of Counties that are mismanaging public funds.
He noted that such disclosures would empower Kenyans to demand accountability and safeguard their rights.
"Kenyans have been seeking information on counties where funds are being blatantly mismanaged. The Senate through its committees, should be able to provide this," said Murungi.
During the week, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula urged Kenyan ambassadors to prioritise economic diplomacy to drive the nation’s development.
Speaking at a meeting with Kenya’s ambassador to the US David Kerich, and embassy staff in Washington DC,Wetang’ula told the diplomats to focus on economic matters while strengthening ties with the Kenyan diaspora to tap into valuable opportunities, including trade, that foreign nations offer.
The Speaker emphasised the strategic importance of the US capital in shaping Kenya’s global partnerships.
"Washington is not just another diplomatic post; it is the seat of the World Bank, IMF, and the heartbeat of global decision-making," he stated on Wednesday.
"Engaging effectively here means opening doors for Kenya’s growth, attracting investments, and securing beneficial trade agreements,” he added.
Senate Minority Leader and Kilifi County Senator Stewart Madzayo raised concerns over the inadequate funding which he said hampers the Senate’s operations.
However, Madzayo acknowledged that the Senate has made significant progress in executing its responsibilities, resulting in positive impacts at the county level.
Comments 0
Sign in to join the conversation
Sign In Create AccountNo comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!