The Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs (MLGCRA) has commenced a comprehensive review of the National Decentralisation Policy and Strategy Matrix as part of efforts to reposition decentralisation as a key driver of national development. The review process, which is currently underway, seeks to assess gaps in the existing framework and introduce reforms that will enhance democratic governance, improve service delivery, and ensure sustainable development at the local level.
At the center of the ongoing review is the Ministry’s ambition to deepen local democratic participation by transitioning to a system where Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) are elected on a non-partisan basis. This is expected to promote accountability, strengthen citizen engagement, and ensure that local leaders genuinely reflect the will of the people. Additionally, the Ministry is working to improve merit-based and transparent appointments to District Assemblies as part of a broader effort to strengthen the foundations of local governance.
The review also focuses on streamlining the creation of new districts and enforcing effective boundary management mechanisms to ensure territorial coherence and functional integration of local governments. To support this, the Ministry is proposing a harmonised legal framework that aligns decentralisation laws with sectoral mandates, eliminating overlaps, clarifying institutional roles, and enhancing coordination across agencies for more effective outcomes.
As part of efforts to foster inclusivity and effectiveness, the Ministry is exploring reforms to promote greater gender representation in local assemblies and ensure the timely election of Presiding Members to strengthen Assembly leadership. Further considerations include improving the integration of traditional authorities into local governance structures and building the capacity of Assembly members, decentralised departments, and Regional Coordinating Councils (RCCs).
The review also seeks to address institutional and operational inefficiencies by fully operationalising decentralised departments, raising professional standards among local government staff, and leveraging technology to improve planning and service delivery. Emphasis is being placed on strengthening decentralised planning systems, establishing coordinated governance platforms, and adopting a structured approach to human resource and logistics management.
On the financial front, the review considers measures to improve resource allocation to local governments, reduce irregularities in fiscal transfers, and enhance internally generated fund (IGF) systems through digital tools. It also promotes deeper implementation of the Composite Budget and enhanced financial management practices, while creating a conducive environment for public and private sector investment in local development.
Beyond these areas, the policy review encompasses a wide range of other reforms aimed at enhancing the performance, accountability, and responsiveness of the decentralisation system. These include improvements in planning, monitoring and evaluation frameworks, expanded mechanisms for citizen participation, and strengthened intersectoral coordination at all levels. The Ministry remains committed to engaging stakeholders throughout the process to ensure that the revised policy aligns with national priorities and effectively supports development at the local level.
Through these wide-ranging reforms, the Ministry seeks not only to revitalise the decentralisation process but also to position local governments as key catalysts for equitable and sustainable national development.