Residents of North Horr in Marsabit County have contributed to ongoing policy reforms following their participation in a public engagement forum convened under the WASH Sustainable Services Initiative (SSI) project, which PACIDA implements.
The forum, supported by WHH Kenya and the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), offered community members an opportunity to review and provide input on key legal instruments that guide water governance, climate action, and natural resource management in the county.
At the centre of the discussions was the Water Policy and Act 2018, which seeks to strengthen water governance by clarifying institutional mandates, roles, and responsibilities among sector actors.
Community feedback focused on accountability in water resources management and ensuring service structures reflect local needs.
Participants also reviewed proposed amendments to the Marsabit Climate Change Fund Act 2020, aimed at enhancing the county’s adaptation efforts.
The revisions are expected to promote locally led climate actions and boost the resilience of communities facing increasing climate-related shocks.
Additionally, the forum examined amendments to the Natural Resource Management Policy, which provides a structured framework for the sustainable use, conservation, and management of natural resources.
Residents highlighted the importance of clear guidelines to safeguard shared resources and prevent conflict.
PACIDA noted that inclusive public participation remains essential in strengthening governance and ensuring that county policies reflect the priorities of the people they are designed to serve.
The inputs gathered during the North Horr forum will inform ongoing county-level legislative reviews, contributing to more responsive and sustainable resource management across Marsabit