Decentralization and the Social Economics of Development : Lessons from Kenya

There has been broad agreement in recent years that decentralization is key in achieving democracy at local levels. Examining the successes, failures, possibilities and limitations of efforts across rural Kenya, this book analyzes the socioeconomic and institutional prerequisites for successful decentralization, and the role of community groups and producer organizations in reducing poverty and promoting empowerment. Original empirical studies explore the fundamental elements of coherent, inclusive and ultimately effective decentralization, and how these can be applied to efforts across the African continent and beyond.