The Assessment of Community Development Policies in Kenya

Abstract

This paper gives a discussion of the role of community development policies in Kenya. The paper traces the genesis and rationale of community development policies. Particular emphasis is paid on the implementation of the policies and their contribution to community development since independence. The paper presents a discussion of the performance of the various community development strategies adopted by the Kenya government since independence. Strengths and weaknesses of each of the strategies adopted by the government are assessed. The paper further discusses the major challenges encountered in the implementation of policies which include inadequate financial resources and the non-inclusion of the local people. The paper concludes by highlighting the importance of public participation in the implementation of policies. Recommendations on the way forward with regard to community development work in Kenya are presented.

Keywords: Community development, Public participation, Policies and Strategies