The Senate resumes its regular sittings this week after a two-week recess, with a packed agenda featuring key Bills expected to shape county governance, promote climate-resilient construction, and strengthen the agricultural sector.
Among the priority proposals is the County Governments Laws (Amendment) Bill, sponsored by Garissa Senator Abdul Haji, which seeks to enhance accountability and streamline the operations of devolved units.
The Bill proposes a decennial audit of county public service operations to hold governors accountable even after leaving office. It also mandates governors to deliver annual addresses to county assemblies and sets clear timelines for appointing county executives and chief officers.
“The Bill stipulates timelines for the nomination and appointment of county executive committee members and county chief officers, provides for new county public service boards after every General Election, and introduces a county public service audit,” Senator Haji explained.
He added that governors would be legally required to nominate executive members within 14 days of assuming office, while county assemblies must approve or reject nominees within a similar period.
Currently, the law lacks timelines for such appointments, often causing delays that disrupt service delivery in counties.
Also lined up for debate is the National Construction Authority (Amendment) Bill, sponsored by Migori Senator Eddy Oketch, which seeks to embed environmental sustainability and climate resilience in Kenya’s construction industry.
“The construction sector plays a vital role in Kenya’s economy, yet it remains highly vulnerable to climate change,” Oketch said. “This Bill empowers the National Construction Authority to enforce environmentally sustainable designs, standards, and materials across the sector.”
In the agricultural sector, nominated Senator Veronica Maina has tabled the Agriculture Produce (Minimum Guaranteed Returns) Bill, aimed at cushioning farmers from market volatility by guaranteeing minimum earnings.
Maina highlighted the central role of agriculture in Kenya’s economy, noting that it contributes over 20 per cent of the GDP, accounts for 60 per cent of export earnings, and supports over 70 per cent of the rural population.
“The sector faces significant challenges that reduce its contribution to the economy and livelihoods, including limited access to finance and market uncertainty,” she said.
Other Bills scheduled for discussion include the County Attorney (Amendment) Bill by Bungoma Senator Wafula Wakoli, which seeks to strengthen the qualifications and tenure of County Attorneys and Solicitors, and the Seeds and Plant Varieties (Amendment) Bill by Narok Senator Ledama ole Kina, which proposes faster seed registration and improved certification standards.
The Senate is expected to have a busy week as these Bills undergo scrutiny, with the potential to transform governance, promote sustainable development, and boost food security across the country.
