Governors have faulted a proposal to reduce counties’ allocation from Sh400 billion Sh380 billion due to the withdrawal of the finance act 2024.
Speaking during the sixth edition of the Ura Gate Cultural Festival in Tharaka Nithi County, Council of governors chairperson Ann Waiguru said the allocation of Sh400 billion was also insufficient.
“I urge the Senate and the National Assembly to make sure that the allocation for the county governments is not reduced. Even last year, counties were allocated Sh385 billion. The proposed Sh380 billion will paralyze services,” Ms Waiguru said.
Governor Muthomi Njuki echoed her sentiments saying the move is going to negatively affect delivery of services to the 47 county governments.
“Counties deal with very serious functions including health and agriculture which need enough money and it will not be possible to deliver the services if the allocation will be reduced,” Njuki said.
Njuki said the anticipated gains through devolution are yet to be fully achieved mainly because of underfunding, noting it is the high time the Constitution 2010 is well implemented.
The Senate had proposed allocation of Sh415 billion for counties while the National Assembly wanted counties allocated Sh391 billion before the two houses agreed on Sh400 billion.
Meanwhile, the Council of Governors has urged Kenyans to embrace diverse cultures in the Country to achieve a cumulative civilization of the society and grow the economy.
Waiguru said about 1.9million foreigners visited the Country in 2023 driven by curiosity to learn diverse cultures as well as Kenyan nature and Wildlife, thus creating six (6) percent of the Kenyan jobs.
“Over 6 percent of total employment can be accredited to the sector, resulting in over 581 million US dollars being spent by tourists within our borders,” Waiguru said.
Governor Njuki urged guests to visit the splendid Lake Ellis via Chogoria route, Scenic Mt Kenya, National Parks to view Big Five, The Elephant Maternity, Transcendent Kibuuka Waterfalls and other wonders.
Waiguru pleaded with counties which boosts of 580 historical sites and 240 sacred sites across the counties of which 40 are UNESCO recognized.
“The CoG is advocating for more resources to counties to support local industries and manufacturing of natural endowments. County governments have established cultural centers, promoting cultural tourism, hosting cultural events, empowering youths through Drama and Music Festivals participation, and enacting culture policies and legislations,” Waiguru said.
Njuki said Tharaka Nithi County stands as a true beacon of rich cultural heritage, where traditions have been preserved in their purest form and remain vibrant today.
