Devolution Is Kenya’s Second Liberation, Says MP Millie Odhiambo

In the mid-20th century, most African countries gained independence particularly in the years following World War II, as colonial powers weakened and nationalist movements surged across the continent. For many, this was not just a political victory but a reclamation of dignity, identity, and the right to self-determination.

Economically, Africans sought to regain control over their natural resources, trade, and development priorities. The fight for freedom also meant dismantling systems of racial segregation, forced labor, and discriminatory laws that had long dehumanized communities.

But decades later, the question remains: has independence delivered on its promise?

Suba North Member of Parliament Millie Odhiambo offers a candid reflection on the paradox of post-independence Kenya. “With time, instead of us seeing positive move, we were actually regressing. It is a paradox that we fought the colonialism and ended up losing,” she opines.

Odhiambo, born after independence, recalls growing up in a community with limited amenities, yet buoyed by the hope that things would change now that colonial rule had ended.

“During colonialism, they took away our rights and dignity. But even after they left, instead of us seeing positive move, we were actually regressing. It is a paradox that we fought the colonialism and ended up losing” she says.

Odhiambo draws comparisons with countries like South Africa and Zimbabwe, where colonialists stayed longer. “We see that they have progressed in some things because of that,” she notes, suggesting that Kenya’s early independence may have lacked the structural foundations needed for sustained growth.

Yet amid the critique, she sees hope, especially in the spirit of devolution.

“With devolution, we are seeing things changing,” she says, pointing to the potential for counties to drive meaningful development.

She challenges Governors to rise to the occasion: “Our challenge as Governors is that we have opportunity with devolution, for purposes of social and economic rights, to change the trajectory of our own counties. To bring water, healthcare.”

She emphasizes that devolution must be inclusive, regardless of political affiliation. “In social and economic rights, our greatest hope is with counties working effectively,” she adds.

MP Millie Odhiambo was speaking during a panel discussion during the 2025 Devolution Conference on August 14, 2025 in Homa Bay County.