The Commission on Administrative Justice to Enhance Access to Information
Ombudsman Office to Enhance Access to Information
The Commission on Administrative Justice is working with county governments to develop Access to Information Acts tailored to each of Kenya’s 47 devolved units. Commission Chairman Charles Orinda emphasized that the absence of such laws at the county level has hindered citizens from seeking crucial information, urging County Assemblies to bridge the gap.
Orinda noted that the commission is offering technical support and capacity-building assistance to county governments to craft laws that consider local circumstances. He explained that while a national Access to Information Act exists, county-specific legislation would ensure that citizens can obtain details about programs run by their respective devolved units.
The chairman underscored the importance of empowering the public to request information and hold county governments accountable. He pointed out that not all citizens can travel to Nairobi to lodge complaints about denied access to information, making county-level legislation crucial in ensuring transparency.
Speaking at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) in Kisumu during an inspection of the Social Health Authority (SHA), Orinda stressed the significance of information access in monitoring projects worth billions of shillings being implemented by county governments. He highlighted climate resilience initiatives under the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLOCA) program, stating that public awareness and engagement are essential for the success of such projects.
As part of the assessment, the commission’s team visited Siaya Referral Hospital, JOOTRH, and several private and faith-based health facilities to evaluate the implementation of SHA. Similar exercises were conducted in Nyandarua, Murang’a, Isiolo, and Nakuru, with findings set to be compiled into a comprehensive report.
Orinda noted that the evaluation aims to identify challenges affecting the effective functioning of the scheme, after which the commission will issue a detailed statement on the way forward.
The Commission on Administrative Justice to Enhance Access to Information
