Political Clientelism and Sustainable Development: A Case of Kenyan Forest Policy

Abstract

This chapter examines the dilemmas faced by policy makers and bureaucratic executives in implementing sustainable development policy objectives. The dilemma stems from the fact that while on the one hand, implementation of sustainable development goals requires momentary sacrifices by some segment of the population for the long-term benefits of the whole population, on the other hand, those entrusted to make implementation decisions are in office only for a short period of time thereby constrained to pursue policy objectives that maximize short-time benefits and minimizes short-term costs. To discuss these hallenges, the chapter employs the case of Mau Forest Complex conservation efforts in Kenya. It is advanced that political clientelism is the main explanatory factor for both Mau Forest distraction and failure of its conservation efforts. It recommends employment of the incremental model to public policy implementation for forest conservation efforts, as well as political sensitivity and intense grassroots mobilization.