Development of science and technology infrastructure in Kenya during periods of structural adjustment

Abstract

For almost one decade now Kenya has been experiencing a series of setbacks with adverse effects on the rates of economic and social development. To many economists, this crisis has been referred to as structural, necessitating the adoption of stabilization and structural adjustment programmes and policies (SAPs). These programmes, supported by international financial institutions (in particular, the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank) have aimed at reducing fiscal and monetary imbalances by, among others, rationalising government expenditures and reducing the scope of public sector activities. The objective of this research project is to examine the impact which structural adjustment programmes in Kenya on the development of scientific and technological institutions. The main emphasis of the study is on the effects of the reductions in government expenditures on the scientific and technological infrastructure. The research methodology adopts a historical approach, by studying the development of scientific and technological institutions in Kenya, over the last ten years. The emphasis is on the period from 1986 which constitutes the core adjustment period. The main focus is public institutions, providing training and services, and undertaking research activities. The study also examines the performance of the industrial sector during the period of adjustment. The report shows that whilst the growth of public expenditures in Kenya has been a matter of concern, the rate of increase has not significantly stopped. The inability to control expenditures is due in part to the composition and structure of expenditures, and also to a general lack of discipline in expenditure allocation and execution. This scenario, has, unfortunately, been existing and practised at the expense of the development of science and technology-based institutions in the country. Although science and technology has been identified to play an important role in Kenya's growth and developrnent.. the funding of .. requisite research organisations has been totally inadequate. The situation has degenerated even further within the period of execution of structural adjustment programmes, which entailed under-cutting development projects at such institutions. As a result, most of the funds devoted to research are, instead, committed for personnel expenses. The reduction in government funds has also been worsened by the fact that even operational funds that are budgeted, are not always actually disbursed to,!he relevant institutions.