Garissa County has formulated plans towards improving governance, planning, and coordinated service delivery with the launch of four transformative policies aimed at strengthening evidence-based decision-making across all sectors.
Governor Nathif Jama, accompanied by County Commissioner Mohamed Mwabudzo, unveiled the new policy frameworks during a ceremony held in Garissa Township.
The launch marks a significant milestone for the county, particularly in data management, disaster preparedness, coordination of development partners, and monitoring of government programmes.
The four policies introduced include:
1. County Statistical Abstract 2024
A historic achievement, this is Garissa’s first Statistical Abstract since the start of devolution, and the first of its kind among all ASAL counties.
The publication compiles comprehensive demographic, social, economic, environmental, and sectoral data, providing the most authoritative evidence base to guide planning and investment across the county.
2. County Monitoring and Evaluation Policy 2025
This policy establishes a structured, countywide framework for tracking the performance of programmes and projects.
It seeks to address long-standing gaps in Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) by clearly outlining responsibilities at county, sector, sub-county, and ward levels, ensuring better accountability and improved delivery of public services.
3. County Disaster Risk Management Policy
Designed to enhance preparedness and resilience, this framework outlines how Garissa will anticipate, mitigate, and respond to various disasters that affect communities, including droughts, floods, and emerging risks.
The policy strengthens coordination mechanisms and ensures timely action during emergencies.
4. County Partnership and Coordination Policy
Another first among ASAL regions, and only the third of its kind in Kenya, this framework guides cooperation between the county government and development partners.
It ensures external support aligns with county priorities while improving transparency, coordination, and effectiveness of partner-led initiatives.
Speaking during the launch, Governor Nathif Jama urged all stakeholders to adopt and fully operationalise the new policies.
“Let us work together to ensure these policies translate into improved service delivery, better planning, stronger institutions, and ultimately, a more prosperous and resilient Garissa County,” he said.
The governor also acknowledged the invaluable support of development partners, including the United Nations, UNICEF, Islamic Relief, IRC, VNG, RCK, Inkomoko, WFP, and the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office. Their expertise and commitment, he noted, have been central to strengthening governance structures and improving the lives of Garissa residents.
The four policy launches signal a new era of coordinated, data-driven, and accountable governance in Garissa.