PhD Experts 
In the journey toward inclusive growth and sustainable development, counties around the world are embracing structured and comprehensive planning approaches. One such crucial framework, especially in decentralized governance systems like Kenya’s, is the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP). But what exactly is a CIDP? Why does it matter? And how does it shape the development trajectory of counties?
In this article, we’ll explore the definition, purpose, components, benefits, and challenges of the CIDP, and its significance in participatory governance and community development.
Definition: What is County Integrated Development Plan?
A County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) is a five-year strategic plan that guides the development priorities and resource allocation in a county. It is prepared by the county government and acts as the blueprint for all projects, programs, and policies to be implemented during its cycle.
CIDPs are mandatory under the Kenyan Constitution (2010) and the County Governments Act (2012). Each of the 47 counties in Kenya is required to develop its CIDP, aligning with national development goals like Kenya Vision 2030, the Medium-Term Plans (MTPs), and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Legal Framework Behind CIDP
The County Integrated Development Plan is anchored in several legal instruments:
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The Constitution of Kenya (2010) – Introduces devolution and mandates planning for effective service delivery.
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The County Governments Act, 2012 – Specifically Section 104-108 outlines the requirement for county governments to plan and develop a CIDP.
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Public Finance Management Act (2012) – Links planning with budgeting to ensure efficient use of public resources.
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Urban Areas and Cities Act (2011) – Applies to urban planning within counties, often incorporated into the CIDP.
Why is CIDP Important?
The County Integrated Development Plan is not just a bureaucratic requirement; it plays a crucial role in:
a. Guiding Resource Allocation
CIDP prioritizes development projects based on community needs and available resources, avoiding duplication and waste.
b. Promoting Accountability
CIDP provides a transparent mechanism to track what the county plans to do and compare it with what is actually achieved.
c. Encouraging Public Participation
It involves citizens in setting priorities, ensuring that government actions reflect local aspirations.
d. Enhancing Coordination
CIDPs align with national goals and harmonize efforts among different departments, donors, NGOs, and the private sector.
Components of a County Integrated Development Plan
A typical CIDP document contains the following sections:
1. Introduction and Background
This includes the county profile—geography, population, economy, governance structure, and major challenges.
2. Situational Analysis
This assesses the current state of development, identifying gaps in sectors such as health, education, infrastructure, agriculture, and environment.
3. Vision, Mission, and Strategic Objectives
The CIDP articulates the county’s long-term goals and the values guiding its development.
4. Sectoral Plans
Each department (like health, transport, education) submits its objectives, strategies, and projects for the five-year period.
5. Implementation Framework
This outlines how the plan will be rolled out, who is responsible, and what timelines are involved.
6. Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E)
This includes performance indicators, reporting systems, and timelines to assess progress and make adjustments.
The Process of Developing a CIDP
Creating a County Integrated Development Plan is a participatory, multi-step process:
Step 1: Preparation
The county forms a planning team, which includes experts, government officials, and stakeholders.
Step 2: Public Consultation
Communities, youth groups, women’s groups, private sector players, and NGOs are consulted through public forums, surveys, and meetings.
Step 3: Drafting the Plan
Using data and inputs, the county drafts the CIDP with clear programs, costs, and timelines.
Step 4: Approval by County Assembly
The draft CIDP is submitted to the County Assembly for debate, possible amendments, and approval.
Step 5: Publication and Implementation
Once approved, the CIDP is published and used to guide budgeting and development over five years.
Public Participation in CIDP
One of the core pillars of the CIDP is citizen involvement. The Constitution of Kenya mandates that citizens must have a say in how resources are used. The CIDP process ensures this by:
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Holding barazas (public forums) at ward and sub-county levels.
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Allowing written submissions and community-based organization inputs.
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Including marginalized groups, persons with disabilities, youth, and women.
Why does this matter? When citizens participate, the resulting plans are more responsive, needs-based, and legitimate.
Challenges Facing CIDP Implementation
Despite its strategic intent, many counties face obstacles in developing and executing their CIDPs. Common challenges include:
a. Inadequate Funding
Many counties rely heavily on the national government for revenue. Delayed or insufficient disbursements affect project delivery.
b. Political Interference
Some development priorities may be skewed by political interests rather than community needs.
c. Poor Public Awareness
Many citizens are unaware of the CIDP process, missing the opportunity to influence planning.
d. Weak Monitoring Systems
Lack of proper tracking mechanisms makes it hard to evaluate progress or adjust strategies in real-time.
e. Limited Capacity
Some counties face technical challenges in drafting quality plans due to limited expertise in data analysis and strategic planning.
Success Stories of CIDP in Action
Despite the challenges, there are examples where CIDPs have transformed counties:
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Makueni County: Known for innovative public participation and implementing citizen-prioritized projects in water and health.
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Kisumu County: Used its CIDP to attract donor investment in sanitation and waste management.
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Laikipia County: Integrated modern technology into agriculture and livestock management, improving food security through the CIDP framework.
CIDP and Budgeting: The Link
The CIDP is not just a wish list. It is the basis for the county’s annual budget. Each financial year’s plans are drawn from the CIDP through:
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Annual Development Plans (ADPs)
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County Fiscal Strategy Papers (CFSPs)
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Programme-Based Budgets
Without alignment to the CIDP, no project can legally be funded or implemented.
Recommendations for Stronger CIDPs
To enhance the effectiveness of County Integrated Development Plans, the following strategies can be adopted:
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Increase civic education to raise awareness and participation.
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Strengthen county planning units with skilled personnel and digital tools.
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Enhance transparency by publishing CIDPs online and in local languages.
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Link planning with budgeting and performance reviews.
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Foster partnerships with NGOs, donors, and private sector actors to support implementation.
The Future of County Planning
As counties mature in governance, the role of CIDPs will continue to evolve. With devolution entrenched, counties are increasingly expected to be self-reliant and innovative. Future CIDPs may focus more on:
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Climate resilience and green growth
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Digital transformation
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Youth employment and innovation
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Data-driven governance
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Inclusive infrastructure development
Conclusion
A County Integrated Development Plan is more than just a technical document—it is a vision, a contract, and a roadmap for development. It tells the story of where a county is, where it wants to go, and how it will get there, all while putting the citizens at the center of planning.
By strengthening the CIDP process, counties can unlock their full potential, deliver services more efficiently, and build a more inclusive and prosperous society for all.
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