Development partnerships critical in implementation of projects

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua says improved coordination between Government and development partners is critical in the increased absorption of funds allocated to key projects and programmes.

Mr Gachagua said the Development Partnerships Forum has ensured the fostering of better partnership in implementation of the projects across the country.

The Development Partnerships Forum (DPF) is chaired by the Deputy President. Two Heads of Mission co-chair on a rotational basis, one representing bilateral partners and the second, multilateral agencies.

Speaking on Monday when he witnessed the handing over of the Forum’s co-chair position by the outgoing Netherlands Ambassador to Kenya Maarten Brouwer to Germany Ambassador Sebastian Groth at Official Residence in Karen, the DP said Kenyans would benefit more from enhanced coordination.

“The Forum has given fresh impetus to our development dialogue. The Government and development partners’ joint working groups, which are the key foundation of the Forum, have been re-energised and are meeting regularly,” said the DP.

He thanked the partners for their quick support whenever a challenge arises including the recent floods.

“Our partners have come through for us with support during the floods emergency. Since I took office our partners have always held my hand when I have been tasked to lead from the front on the various interventions. I remain indebted to our partners for what they have done to our country,” Mr Gachagua stated.

Also present were the United Nations Resident Coordinator Stephen Jackson, who is also the other Forum’s co-chair, and Germany Embassy Head of Cooperation Daniel Gunther, who represented Ambassador Groth.

The DP said the Forum has fostered dialogue, knowledge sharing, and coordinated efforts to support Kenya’s development agenda.

“This Forum reflects our collective commitment to advancing our nation’s development agenda and fostering effective collaboration between the Government and our Development Partners,” he added.

The Deputy President thanked Ambassador Brouwer, whose term has come to an end, for his commitment to ensuring the Forum’s objectives were achieved.

“Your dedication and leadership as the co-chair of the Forum has been instrumental in advancing Kenya development priorities,” he said.

Ambassador Brouwer said there has been great improvement in the coordination between the Government and the partners through the Forum.

“From the beginning, we have felt part and parcel of the Forum. I appreciate its revamping a lot because we have done things differently from the past,” he said.