City Board

The Kisumu City Board plays a pivotal role in overseeing the management and development of the city. Guided by the Urban Areas and Cities Act of 2011, the Board is entrusted with various functions to ensure the efficient governance and growth of Kisumu. Key functions of the Kisumu City Board include:

1. Oversight of City Affairs: The Board is responsible for overseeing the overall affairs of Kisumu, ensuring that the city’s administration and services align with its strategic goals and objectives.

2. Policy and Strategy Development: It develops and adopts policies, plans, strategies, and programs aimed at improving service delivery and achieving set targets for the city’s development.

3. Integrated Development Planning: The Board formulates and implements an integrated development plan, guiding the city’s growth in a sustainable and coordinated manner.

4. Land Use and Zoning Control: The Board manages land use, sub-division, development, and zoning for various purposes, including residential, commercial, industrial, recreational, and agricultural uses, within the framework of the city’s spatial and master plans as delegated by the County Government.

5. Infrastructure Development: As delegated by the County Government, the Board promotes and undertakes infrastructure development and services within the city, enhancing connectivity and urban amenities.

6. Scheme Development and Management: The Board collaborates with relevant national and county agencies to develop and manage site development schemes, contributing to structured urban growth.

7. Database and Information Management: The Board maintains a comprehensive database and information system of the city’s administration, providing public access to information upon payment of a nominal fee determined by the Board.

8. Internal Administration: The Board administers and regulates its internal affairs to ensure effective governance and operational efficiency.

9. Implementation of Legislation: It implements applicable national and county legislation, ensuring that all activities comply with legal and regulatory requirements.

10. Partnerships and Contracts: The Board is authorized to enter into contracts, partnerships, or joint ventures as necessary to fulfill its functions and enhance service delivery.

11. Service Monitoring and Regulation: The Board monitors and regulates city services, especially those provided by external service providers, to ensure quality and consistency.
12. Budget Preparation: The Board prepares and submits its annual budget estimates to the relevant County Treasury for consideration and submission to the County Assembly as part of the annual County Appropriation Bill.

13. Revenue Collection: As delegated by the County Government, the Board collects rates, taxes, levies, duties, fees, and surcharges to support the city & financial sustainability.

14. Tariff and Debt Policies: The Board settles and implements policies on tariffs, rates, taxes, and debt collection, ensuring efficient financial management.

15. Performance Monitoring: It monitors the impact and effectiveness of services, policies, programs, and plans, making adjustments as necessary to meet the needs of residents.

16. Performance Management Systems: The Board establishes, implements ,and monitors performance management systems to improve accountability and service delivery.

17. Environmental Protection: Promoting a safe and healthy environment is a key function of the Board  ensuring that Kisumu remains a livable and attractive city.

18. Public Transport Regulation: The Board facilitates and regulates public transport within the city, enhancing mobility and accessibility for residents.

19. Additional Delegated Functions: The Board performs other functions as may be delegated by the County Government or provided for by any other written law, allowing it to adapt to the evolving needs of Kisumu.

Through these functions, the Kisumu City Board plays a vital role in shaping the future of the city, driving sustainable growth, and improving the quality of life for all residents.

In accordance with the Urban Areas and Cities Act of 2011, the Kisumu City Board is empowered to operate within its jurisdiction to ensure effective governance and service delivery to the residents of Kisumu. The Board & powers and responsibilities include:

1. Executive Authority: The Kisumu City Board exercises executive authority as delegated by the County Executive, allowing it to make decisions and take actions within its mandate.

2. Service Provision: The Board is responsible for ensuring the efficient provision of essential services to the residents of Kisumu, enhancing the quality of life and wellbeing in the city.

3. Imposition of Fees and Levies: To support service delivery, the Board is authorized to impose fees, levies, and charges as sanctioned by the County Government. These fees contribute to the funding and sustainability of city services.

4. Promotion of Constitutional Values: Upholding constitutional values and principles is a key mandate of the Board, ensuring that all activities align with national standards and the rule of law.

5. Policy Implementation and Compliance: The Board ensures the implementation and compliance with policies set by both the National and County Governments, fostering a cohesive approach to urban governance
and development.

6. Legislation and Recommendations: The Kisumu City Board has the authority to make bye-laws or recommend issues for inclusion in bye-laws, contributing to the legal and regulatory framework governing the city.

7. Resident Participation: A core responsibility of the Board is to facilitate the active participation of Kisumu residents in decision-making processes, activities, and programs, ensuring that the community’s voice is central to city governance.

8. Additional Delegated Powers: The Board may also exercise other powers as delegated by the County Executive Committee, allowing for flexibility and responsiveness to the city’s evolving needs.

Through these powers, the Kisumu City Board plays a crucial role in driving the growth and development of our city, ensuring that Kisumu remains a thriving, inclusive, and well-managed urban center.