Relationship between Level of Participation and Decision-making in Devolved Governments in Kenya
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47941/hrlj.3613Keywords:
Levels of Participation, Decision making, Devolved unitsAbstract
Purpose of the study: The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between levels of participation and decision making in devolved governments in Kenya.
Methodology: The study adopted both the descriptive and explanatory research designs. Multi-phase sampling was used where both the stratified, simple random sampling (lottery) as well as purposive sampling were used. The target population of the study was the 5, 637,789 citizens aged 18 years and above in the eight selected counties (Kenya National Bureau of Statistic [KNBS], 2019). The sample size was 384 respondents. The main data collection tool was the use of questionnaires where 339 questionnaires were filled and returned, interviews and document analysis were used as well. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS and was summarized and presented in tables and figures. Qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis.
Findings: The findings of the study showed that R2 = 0.383 which implies that 38.2 % of variation in decision making as the dependent variable can be explained by level of participation within the bivariate model. The study further analysed the beta coefficients of levels of participation and the results showed that levels of participation is statistically significant in explaining decision making in devolved governments in Kenya (β=0.583, t=14.832, p<0.05). ANOVA results also showed that that the model was valid and significant (F (1, 333) = 68.47, p < 0.05.). This implies that level of participation significantly predicts decision-making.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This study validates Arnstein’s assertion that higher-order participation (marked by partnership and delegated power) correlates with substantive influence over governance decisions. The study extends the model by proposing a context-sensitive adaptation tailored to Kenya's county systems. This includes a paradigm shift from tokenistic physical inclusion to a more value-based decision making where participation is assessed by the impact that citizens views have over final decisions rather than procedural participation. Based on the findings the study recommends that devolved governments should put in place mechanisms that would ensure that citizen participation shifts from the lowest level (tokenism) to a level where there is genuine citizen influence in decision making.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Margaret Mcheghu Righa, Dr. Kabare Karanja, Dr. Rebecca Maina
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