Effects of public participation practices on Implementation of county policy: a case of Uasin Gishu County, Kenya

Abstract

Policy implementation is the actualization of government plans and programs in response to societal needs. In Kenya, particularly in Uasin Gishu County, the gap between policy formulation and implementation has often been attributed to ineffective public participation. This study examined the effects of public participation practices on the implementation of county policy in Uasin Gishu County, using Kapseret Ward as a representative case. Guided by Social Exchange Theory and the New Public Management Theory, the study focused on four key objectives: to assess the effect of representation, information exchange, stakeholder interaction, and environmental factors on policy implementation. The study employed a cross-sectional survey design targeting 410 adult residents who had previously participated in public forums. A sample of 41 respondents was selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Spearman’s rank correlation through SPSS version 27. The findings revealed a statistically significant positive relationship between public participation and policy implementation (ρ > 0.5, p < 0.05). Specifically, stakeholder representation, effective information exchange, and stakeholder interaction significantly influenced the success of policy implementation. However, environmental factors were found to moderate this relationship, either enhancing or impeding participation effectiveness depending on political, institutional, or socio-economic contexts. Based on the results, the study recommends that Uasin Gishu County government enhance inclusivity and representation in public forums by incorporating marginalized groups and ensuring adequate sensitization on policy matters. Further, there should be structured mechanisms for timely information dissemination and feedback loops between policymakers and citizens. Lastly, the county should address contextual barriers such as political interference and inadequate facilitation to improve the enabling environment for participatory governance. The study concludes that effective public participation, anchored in meaningful representation and communication, is essential for the successful implementation of county policies. Future research may explore longitudinal impacts of participation practices on development outcomes across different wards in the county.