Nairobi: The Council of Governors (COG) is advocating for a substantial increase in funding to devolved units, pushing for an allocation of at least Sh536 billion for the 2025/2026 fiscal year. Governor Fernandes Barasa, who chairs the COG’s Finance, Planning, and Economic Affairs Committee, emphasized that this goal could be realized following a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga aimed at tackling Kenya’s sociopolitical challenges.
According to Kenya News Agency, the agreement includes a proposal for the national government to allocate not less than Sh450 billion during the 2025/2026 fiscal year. Governor Barasa expressed the expectation for the national government to exhibit political goodwill and urged President Ruto to adhere to the agreement to bolster devolution efforts.
Governor Barasa, speaking at Bukhungu Stadium during the swearing-in of County Public Service Board Members, commended the senate for advocating for adequate county funding, recognizing their dedication to reinforcing devolution. He highlighted the necessity for provisions for non-discretionary expenses and adjustments for revenue growth, amounting to Sh21 billion.
The governor pledged to Kakamega residents that ongoing projects would be completed before the 2027 general election, citing collaboration with the national government to finish the Bukhungu International Stadium by June 2026. He also mentioned President Ruto’s commitment to completing Kakamega Level 6 Hospital, alongside other healthcare projects like Shamakhubu Hospital and Butere Level 4.
Governor Barasa announced upcoming development tours to launch various projects in collaboration with Members of County Assembly (MCAs), including the Misango Hills Water project and the issuance of social protection grants to self-help groups. These grants, initiated in the 2023/2024 fiscal year, allocated Sh50 million to benefit 900 groups.
In the education sector, Sh17 million has been invested to procure desks and tables for early childhood development education (ECDE) centers, aiming to enhance the learning environment. Governor Barasa also urged contractors to complete ECDE centers by June.
Additionally, the governor plans to distribute top dressing fertilizer to over 150,000 widows and vulnerable families to ensure food security in the county.