Aasai

Early Findings from National Peer Review Exercise Highlight Progress in Infrastructure, Healthcare, and Public Engagement.Baringo County is being recognized for impressive strides in development, particularly in the areas of infrastructure and healthcare, under the leadership of Governor Benjamin Cheboi. According to preliminary findings from the ongoing County Peer Review Mechanism (CPRM), the county has shown significant transformation since the launch of devolution in 2013. These developments have positioned Baringo as a promising example of what devolution can achieve when resources are effectively managed and leadership is focused.

The CPRM, which is spearheaded by a panel of eminent persons, is a national initiative designed to assess and promote best practices among Kenya’s devolved units. Professor Olive Mugenda, the lead panelist for the exercise, reported that feedback gathered from local residents across Baringo’s nine sub-counties has been overwhelmingly positive. Residents have expressed satisfaction with visible improvements in public services, especially in road infrastructure and healthcare delivery.

“He [Governor Cheboi] is on the right track in issues like roads, health, and all other indicators outlined in the Constitution,” Prof. Mugenda affirmed. She went on to commend the governor for his administration’s openness and willingness to support the data collection process. This collaboration, she noted, has enhanced the accuracy and credibility of the findings, which are critical in fostering transparency, accountability, and participatory governance.

The peer review mechanism, which includes community consultations and technical evaluations, aims to assess county governments based on key constitutional mandates and performance benchmarks. Prof. Mugenda emphasized that the exercise is not just a formality but a transformative tool that can help counties better align their development agendas with citizen needs.

Echoing these sentiments, Ambassador Dr. Samori Okwiya, Chief Executive Officer of NEPAD (New Partnership for Africa’s Development), noted that the peer review process is essential in encouraging dialogue between county leaders and the public. According to him, such engagement not only fosters mutual understanding but also promotes data-driven policy formulation.

“This month-long exercise is crucial in identifying challenges and working out strategies to address them,” said Amb. Okwiya. He further revealed that Governor Cheboi, along with other governors, will participate in a national peer review summit slated for August this year. The summit will serve as a platform to showcase success stories, identify gaps, and foster inter-county learning and collaboration.

Governor Cheboi, in response, attributed the county’s positive trajectory to inclusive leadership and active stakeholder engagement. He highlighted that the development milestones seen across Baringo are the result of collective efforts among county officials, community members, and development partners. Importantly, he reframed the peer review process not as a competition but as a reflective exercise meant to evaluate progress and inform future strategies.

“Our focus is on transformation and delivering tangible results to our people. This process helps us take stock of where we are and how we can do even better,” said Governor Cheboi.

As the CPRM process continues, Baringo County stands as a testament to the power of effective governance, strategic planning, and community involvement. The encouraging feedback from both local citizens and national evaluators points to a county that is steadily moving forward, committed to improving lives through sustainable development and inclusive leadership.