Embracing Technocracy in Kenya: A Call for Expertise-Driven Governance
As an ICT practitioner, I have often wondered why the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy does not have an ICT expert as its Cabinet Secretary. Given today's rapidly advancing technological landscape, having a leader with a strong background in ICT could revolutionize Kenya's digital economy, foster innovation, and improve efficiency across various sectors. Similarly, other ministries must be led by individuals with relevant expertise to ensure informed decision-making and effective policy implementation. A good example is the Ministry of Health. This is a crucial sector that a medical practitioner should lead to ensure that healthcare policies are developed and implemented by someone with a deep understanding of medical science, patient care, and healthcare systems, enhancing the quality of healthcare services, improving public health outcomes, and ensuring that health policies are aligned with the best practices and scientific evidence. The Attorney General, for instance, has always been a lawyer; why can’t we accord the same respect to the other government offices?
Governance plays a crucial role in a country's development and prosperity. With recent events in Kenya leading to the dismissal of all cabinet Secretaries, it is imperative to consider the benefits of appointing a technocratic cabinet as we move forward.
What is a Technocracy?
A technocracy is a government where decision-makers are selected based on technical knowledge and expertise. Unlike traditional political systems, technocrats are chosen for their skills and experience in specific areas, which allows for more informed and effective decision-making. This approach ensures that policies are formulated and implemented by individuals who deeply understand the fields they oversee.
The term "technocracy" was popularized in the early 20th century by engineers and scientists who believed that experts in their respective fields should manage industrial society. William Henry Smyth posits that technocracy emphasizes governance by technical experts rather than politicians or businesspeople who may need more knowledge to address complex socio-economic issues effectively. Technocrats are expected to base their decisions on scientific data and empirical evidence, ensuring that policies are efficient, rational, and geared towards long-term benefits. The Kenya Constitution envisaged this cabinet since the executive has only two politicians, the President and his deputy; the rest are executive operatives.
The Case for a Technocratic Cabinet in Kenya
Kenyan citizens desire a government that is knowledgeable, efficient, and free from corruption. A technocratic cabinet would operate similarly to a corporation, where each department is led by an expert in the respective field, contributing to the organization's overall success, in this case, the country.
From what I have gathered, let’s look at the noticeable mismatch between the educational backgrounds of some former Kenyan cabinet ministers and the ministries they led (This is in no way to diminish their expertise in their fields but to show the mismatch between the offices and their expertise).
1. Rebecca Miano - Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry
Education: Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Master of Laws (LLM) in Comparative Law and International Law.
2. Kithure Kindiki - Interior and National Administration
Education: Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Master of Laws (LLM), and a PhD in International Law.
3. Alice Wahome - Ministry of Lands, Public Works, Housing, and Urban Developments
Education: Bachelor of Laws (LLB).
4. Susan Nakhumicha - Ministry of Health
Education: Bachelor of Commerce, Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Health Systems Management.
5. Peninah Malonza - Ministry of East African Community, The ASALs, and Regional Developments
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Social Work, Master of Arts in Project Planning and Management.
6. Alfred Mutua - Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, Master of Science in Communications, PhD in Communication and Media.
7. Moses Kuria - Ministry of Public Service Performance and Delivery Management
Education: Bachelor of Commerce.
8. Aisha Jumwa - Ministry of Gender, Culture, the Arts, and Heritage
Education: Diploma in County Governance.
9. Njuguna Ndung’u - National Treasury and Planning
Education: Bachelor of Economics, Master of Arts in Economics, PhD in Economics.
10. Aden Duale - Defense
Education: Bachelor of Education (B.Ed).
11. Onesmus Kipchumba Murkomen - Roads and Transport
Education: Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Master of Laws (LLM) in International Law.
12. Roselinda Soipan Tuya - Environment and Forestry
Education: Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Master of Laws (LLM) in Law and Policy.
13. Zachariah Mwangi Njeru - Water, Sanitation & Irrigation
Education: Information not readily available.
14. Mithika Linturi - Agriculture and Livestock Development
Education: Bachelor of Commerce.
15. Ezekiel Machogu - Education
Education: Bachelor of Arts.
16. Salim Mvurya - Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Political Science, Master of Arts in Participation, Power, and Social Change.
17. Eliud Owalo - Information, Communications and the Digital Economy
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Business Studies, Master of Business Administration (MBA).
Please note that this is not a comprehensive list of the former cabinet secretaries and may not reflect their full educational qualifications.
In conclusion, I am aware others may argue that a technocratic cabinet may also have potential drawbacks; for instance, technocrats might lack the political skills necessary for navigating complex political environments, and the government could pair them with experienced political advisors who may help bridge the gap between technical expertise and political strategy. Technocrats may also become disconnected from the needs and perspectives of the general population, which can be avoided by regular interaction between technocrats and citizens through public consultations, town hall meetings, and feedback mechanisms. As with any growing economy or society, there are growing pains that can always be mitigated for the better. A technocratic approach to appointing cabinet ministers in Kenya could significantly enhance governance by ensuring that experts lead each ministry in the relevant fields. This shift would improve efficiency and effectiveness and align with the citizens' demand for knowledgeable and corruption-free leadership. By tapping into the vast pool of educated and experienced professionals in Kenya, The President can build a government that can address the nation's challenges with precision and expertise.