The Nakuru County Civil Society Organizations Forum (NACCSOF or NACSOF) on Thursday July 30, 2026 hosted Governor’s Roundtable meeting with calls for adherence to constitutionalism and enhancing principles of Devolution.
Under the theme ‘In pursuit of Devolution Dream’, the meeting that was graced by Nakuru Deputy Governor David Kones, also brought together County Executive Committee members, Chief officers, members of the Civil Society Organizations and media.
The Forum saw a discussion on how to enhance Responsive and Accountable Service Delivery in Nakuru County.
Calls to advance open governance and strengthen commitments to accountable, equitable and responsive public service delivery across key sectors, including health, water and education took centre stage.
It should be noted that this annual roundtable provides an important platform for constructive dialogue, policy engagement and social accountability.
The discussions were informed by evidence generated through budget analysis and expenditure monitoring undertaken by the Nakuru County Civil Society Organizations Forum (NACCSOF).
This is an initiative that also aims to strengthen NACCSOF as a Community of Practice (CoP), enhancing coordinated advocacy, transparency, citizen participation and collaborative efforts to improve service delivery for the people of Nakuru County.
Nakuru Deputy Governor David Kones who officially opened the Forum, emphasized that the roundtable is an opportunity to exchange ideas, listen to one another and build stronger partnerships for development.
He called for the need of such engagements to be held regularly to track progress, assess achievements and collectively identify solutions to emerging challenges.
On his part Masese Kemunche- the Chief Executive Director Centre for Enhancing Democracy and Good Governance(CEDGG) pointed out the importance of the NACCSOF Governor’s Roundtable as a platform that enhances citizens’ involvement in governance through participation towards sustainable development.
Masese added that Devolution is one of the most important dream brought about by Constitution of Kenya 2010.
Public Participation Principle, he noted is a mechanism of consultations between citizens and the Government on what should be done.
While pointing out that NACCSOF was formed to help ensure accountability on the side of Government, Masese who is also the convener reported to the members that Budget Hub Survey carried out this year ranked Nakuru County at number three in matters accountability and transparency.
He reiterated the need to ensure easier access to information as is key in the work that CSOs do.
Sentiments echoed by Bancy Kubutha from Centre for Transformational Leadership(CTL) and co-convener, who highlighted that the work of NACCSOF has seen County Government improve services to the people.
However, it was noted that there is need to address various gaps among them inadequate funding in some sectors, youth engagement to address insecurity issues and rising criminal gangs, and urban violence prevention.
During the forum, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the NACCSOF and County Government of Nakuru.
It should be noted that NACCSOF is a local network of over 30 civil society groups, non-governmental organizations, and community networks working together to promote good governance, human rights, and public participation in Nakuru County.
Key Roles and Activities:
1.Governance and Accountability: The forum monitors county government spending, responds to Auditor-General reports, and pushes for transparent public finance management.
2.Public Participation: It partners with local institutions like the Nakuru County Government and groups like Midrift Hurinet, CTL and CEDGG to train citizens and county officers on meaningful public engagement.
3.Community Development: Supported by national bodies like the Kenya Community Development Foundation, the network builds the capacity of local grassroots groups for community-led progress.