Residents of Oldonyiro in Isiolo County have become the first beneficiaries of the “Under the Tree Series,” a new initiative spearheaded by the Kenya School of Government (KSG) aimed at decentralising public services and enhancing citizen engagement at the grassroots.
The forum, held in an open community setting, brought together various government agencies to offer services directly to wananchi, eliminating the need for long-distance travel to access essential services. From registration and documentation to advisory services, residents were able to receive support under one roof.
Speaking during the launch, KSG officials said the initiative is designed to bridge the gap between the government and citizens by creating accessible platforms where communities can engage directly with service providers.
They noted that the “Under the Tree Series” reflects the government’s broader commitment to inclusive service delivery and public participation.
Local leaders welcomed the initiative, highlighting its impact on marginalised and remote communities such as Oldonyiro, where access to government services has often been limited.
They emphasised that bringing services closer to the people not only saves time and costs but also fosters trust between citizens and the state.
The forum also created space for dialogue, with youth and women actively engaging officials on issues affecting their livelihoods. Participants raised concerns around employment opportunities, access to education, and social services, while government representatives provided guidance and outlined ongoing programmes targeting these groups.
Residents expressed appreciation for the outreach programme, describing it as timely and transformative.
Many noted that the ability to interact directly with service providers in their locality has improved their understanding of available government services and how to access them.
The Kenya School of Government reaffirmed its commitment to rolling out the “Under the Tree Series” across other counties, with Isiolo marking the beginning of a nationwide effort to ensure no citizen is left behind in accessing public services.
The initiative underscores a growing shift towards people-centred governance, where services are not only delivered efficiently but also tailored to meet the needs of communities at the grassroots.