What UNDP is doing with regards to Democratic Governance in Kenya
The empowerment component of the UNDP country programme aims to enhance capacities of key national and local level institutions for improved governance. The programme component supports initiatives that improve efficiency, effectiveness, transparency, accountability and equity in the delivery of public services as well as restore public confidence in the Government’s financial management system. In particular, and in congruence with other ongoing support efforts, UNDP seeks to provide assistance through strengthening capacities to improve the planning, budgetary and other economic management processes including coordination, evaluation, and monitoring.

In the period 2006-2009, the Empowerment component is expected to achieve the following outcomes in line with Millennium Development Goals:

A. Strengthened capacity of key institutions for enhanced efficiency, effectiveness, transparency and accountability in the formulation and delivery of pro-poor planning and policies.Eg. Civil Society Democratic Governance Facility launched on 18 July 2008.
B. Promote a culture of constitutionalism.
C. Enhanced capacity for the promotion of administration of justice and human rights.
D. Strengthened capacity for decentralized and participatory development.
E. Gender mainstreaming in policies and programmes;
F. Enhanced role of media and information in national development and General Elections for December 2007;

NEWS ITEMS

Regional Conference on Constitutional Democracy Launched 19- 22 August 2008

HE. President Mwai Kibaki officially launched the regional conference in Nairobi. In his speech, he stated that 'The road to a new constitutional dispensation has been long and sometimes bumpy. In the National Constitutional Review Conference at Bomas of Kenya, Kenyans gave their views regarding the content of a new constitution'. The conference was preceded by extensive consultations throughout the country and education campaigns by civil society. Kenyans have shown both resilience and determination in the quest for a new constitutional order, and indeed a New Kenya. In addition,leaders have resolved to work together across party lines to complete the process. Click to read President Kibaki's speech

The Ministry of Justice, National Cohesion and Constitutional Affairs (access website)

Prime Minister launches the Public Service week 20- 22 August 2008

Hon. Raila Odinga, the Prime Minister for Kenya, launched the PublIc Service Week at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre. UNDP-Kenya has been supporting this event through the Empowerment Unit which promotes democratic governance. In her speech, Ms Tomoko Nishimoto stated that 'Enhancing the performance of the public sector and ensuring that it is results-focused and citizen-centered is an essential foundation of the pillars of Kenya's Vision 2030'. The Vision looks forward to a Kenya that is a middle income country with a high quality of life for all citizens by the year 2030' .click to read more