Residents from Kenya’s Coast region have urged Parliament to reform regional development authorities rather than dissolve them, arguing that the institutions are essential for coordinating projects that cut across county boundaries.

During public participation hearings held in Kilifi County on Friday, October 23, residents asked the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Regional Development to reject the Regional Development Authorities Laws (Repeal) Bill, 2026, and instead strengthen accountability, financial oversight and regional planning.

Ganze Member of Parliament Kazungu Tungule said the committee had visited the region to collect public views and grievances, assuring participants that their submissions would be considered in the report presented to Parliament.

Ganze Member of Parliament Kazungu Tungule | Photo: Shem Oburu

The proposed legislation seeks to repeal the laws establishing six regional development authorities: the Coast Development Authority (CDA), Kerio Valley Development Authority (KVDA), Lake Basin Development Authority (LBDA), Tana and Athi Rivers Development Authority (TARDA), Ewaso Ng’iro South River Basin Development Authority (ENSDA) and Ewaso Ng’iro North River Basin Development Authority (ENNDA).

These institutions coordinate development initiatives across different regions, including projects involving infrastructure, agriculture, water resources and environmental conservation.

Pwani University lecturer Joseph Tunje was among those who opposed the proposed dissolution, arguing that the Coast Development Authority should be reformed rather than abolished.

He said the authority provides an important framework for coordinating development across the six coastal counties of Kilifi, Kwale, Mombasa, Lamu, Taita Taveta and Tana River.

The opposition follows similar concerns raised by CDA Chairman Mzee Mwinyi, who has argued that regional development authorities play a strategic role in coordinating development initiatives and complementing county governments.

The proposed changes are part of efforts to reorganise government functions, reduce duplication and ease pressure on public finances. However, the Bill remains proposed legislation and has not abolished the six authorities.

The committee is expected to consider submissions from affected communities and other stakeholders before preparing its report for consideration by the National Assembly.