The Taita Taveta County Assembly has passed a motion to implement civic education in line with Section 100 of the County Governments Act, No. 17 of 2012.
The motion, introduced by Wiper Party nominee and Chairman of the Human-Wildlife Conflict Resolution and Social Welfare Committee, Peter Shambi, aims to enhance public awareness of government functions.
Shambi highlighted that civic education is practical and cost-effective, noting that the central government has long used chiefs, their deputies, and local elders to educate citizens through councils and community meetings.
“Hon. Speaker, Article 189 of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, underscores the importance of collaboration between the National and County Governments. It is essential that all parties work together to achieve this goal,” said Shambi.
He urged the County Department of Devolution, Public Service, and Administration, in partnership with the County Assembly’s Committee on Administration, Security, Devolution, Public Participation, Social Services, and Drug Control, to develop simplified public education guidelines. These guidelines would clarify government roles and responsibilities.
Shambi also called for the training of sub-county and ward officers, along with committee members, to serve as civic education trainers. He emphasized the need for a well-structured public education unit.
To ensure smooth implementation and prevent conflicts, he stressed adherence to legal frameworks and recommended the involvement of non-governmental organizations (NGOs). He further proposed that a progress report be submitted to Parliament within 90 days.
Supporting the motion, Wundanyi/Mbale Ward Member Jimmy Mwamidi said it was long overdue, arguing that earlier implementation would have helped citizens better understand the differences between National and County Government functions, improving service accessibility.
Sagala Ward Member Bryson Mwambi echoed these sentiments, asserting that effective civic education would enhance public awareness and minimize conflicts arising from misunderstandings about governance roles.