Description

Abstract: Decentralization is commonly advocated as a means to improve democratic involvement in local governance systems, leading to more effective allocation and management of natural resources. However, devolving decision-making authority to lower levels of government and new community institutions does not guarantee progress in public participation, natural resource management, or equity. Our study of changing land use in the Hurri Hills of Marsabit District, Kenya, illustrates how decentralization can promote the interests of settled cultivators and negatively affect the interests of pastoralists.