Vision 2030 Development Strategy for Northern Kenya

Nearly 50 years after Independence, inequality between the north and the rest of Kenya persists. Uneven human development undermines national cohesion and is an obstacle to Kenya’s achieving its development goals. New mindsets and methods, innovative strategies, and the understanding and support of all Kenyans is required to release the potential of the arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs) and to help their people enjoy the promise of Vision 2030. The paper published by the Kenyan Government “Vision 2030 Development Strategy for Northern Kenya and Other Arid Lands” (2011, 120pp) seeks to complement and deepen Vision 2030 by explaining how its goals will be realised in the specific context of the ASALs of Kenya. Vision 2030 acknowledges the special circumstances of previously marginalised communities, and places a premium on reducing poverty and inequality and re-balancing regional development. Until recently, the distribution of investment in Kenya favoured the “high-potential areas” with abundant natural resources, good land and rainfall. Accelerated investment in previously neglected regions, such as the North, is required if all Kenyans are to have an equal chance of sharing in the promise and benefits of Vision 2030. This document sets out the interventions required to bring the ASALs to the same level as the rest of the country. It explains how the distinctive characteristics of the region will be taken into account, and sets out the broad strategies and priorities which will be operationalised through a series of 5-year medium-term investment plans, starting in 2011.

Posted on 22 April 2017 in General Policy Documents, Pastoralist Livelihoods & Nutrition