The County Governance Status Report 2025 presents evidence-based insights into transparency, accountability, service delivery, and integrity in devolved governance across Kenya. This is the third edition of the survey by Transparency International Kenya, following previous assessments in 2017 and 2019.
Based on perspectives from citizens, county executives, and Members of County Assemblies in 15 counties, the report highlights both progress and persistent gaps in local governance. While improved service delivery and proximity of services were noted as key successes of devolution, challenges such as stalled projects, limited public access to governance documents, low citizen engagement, and rising concerns over corruption remain widespread.
Notably, only 29.8% of respondents were aware of their County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP), and 93.5% did not know the cost of local projects—highlighting transparency and access to information gaps. Health and road infrastructure were identified as top public priorities, while corruption and weak oversight mechanisms were seen as major barriers.
The report offers targeted recommendations to Parliament, County Governments, the Council of Governors, and civil society. These include: enhancing civic education, digitizing revenue collection, disclosing project details proactively, improving fiscal transfers, and establishing independent integrity offices at the county level.