Rift Valley Posts Mixed Results in a 2026 Devolution Scorecard
By Kass Digital | NAIROBI,
Governors from the Rift Valley region have recorded a mixed performance in the latest 2026 Devolution Scorecard, as a new opinion poll highlights both progress and deepening public dissatisfaction with county leadership.
The survey by Timely Kenya shows that Nandi Governor Stephen Sang is among the region’s top performers, ranking 4th with 69% nationally and posting strong results in road infrastructure and agriculture.
Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii also emerged among top counties in water accessibility, reflecting gains in service delivery, while Samburu’s Lati Lelelit secured a place among the best-performing governors nationally.
However, the report paints a less optimistic picture for other counties in the region. Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai and Kajiado’s Joseph Ole Lenku are listed among counties with minimal development, raising concerns over stalled projects and weak service delivery.
Nationally, Kisii Governor Simba Arati emerged as the best-performing governor with an 81 percent score, followed Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi with 75.1%.
According to the poll released on April 10, 2026, first-term governors are generally outperforming their second-term counterparts, suggesting a decline in momentum among more experienced county leaders. The survey, conducted among 4,675 respondents between March 20,2026 and April 2, 2026, assessed county performance across key devolved functions including health, water, roads, education and agriculture.
The report points to growing dissatisfaction among Kenyans, with only 44 percent believing devolution is working, while 56 percent say it is not delivering meaningful impact. Only 40 percent of respondents expressed willingness to re-elect their current governors, signalling a demand for improved accountability and service delivery ahead of the next election cycle.
Timely Kenya concludes that strengthening oversight, enhancing transparency, and improving citizen engagement will be key to unlocking the full benefits of devolution.
