Anne Waiguru, Chairperson of the Council of Governors, has responded to Parliament’s decision to allocate Sh400.1 billion to devolved units for the financial year 2024-25.
In her statement, Waiguru expressed appreciation for the decision, stating that adequate funding for county functions is a highly welcomed decision by the governors.
This acknowledgment underscores the importance of sufficient financial resources for counties to effectively carry out their functions and serve the needs of their constituents.
“Devolution is sacrosanct in the constitution and adequately resourcing functions that counties are mandated to deliver is progressive and a welcome move,” she said.
The Kirinyaga Governor, on behalf of the COG, thanked the Senate and National Assembly Committees involved in negotiations that led to the allocation.
“The Council of Governors specially thanks the Senate Finance Committee led by Senator Ali Roba and by extension the Division of Revenue Allocation Mediation committee of the Senate and National Assembly for increasing the Equitable share to counties by Sh9 billion to arrive at Sh400.1 billion in FY 2024-25.”
It’s significant news that a deal was reached on Monday evening regarding the allocation of funds to devolved units, resulting in an additional Sh15 billion compared to the previous fiscal period.
This increase brings the total allocation for the next financial year to Sh400.1 billion, marking the highest allocation since the inception of devolution in Kenya.
The agreement follows a period of negotiation and disagreement between the Senate and the National Assembly, with differing proposals for county allocations. The Senate had advocated for Sh415 billion, while the National Assembly initially suggested Sh391 billion.
Ultimately, a compromise was reached after deliberations and consultations, with both chambers adjusting their proposals.
Chairman of the National Assembly Budget Committee, Ndindi Nyoro, described the agreement as a victory for devolution. Importantly, this marks the first time that the bicameral house’s mediation committee has reached an amicable agreement on revenue division, avoiding previous deadlocks that required intervention.
The Division of Revenue Allocation Bill 2024 was introduced in the National Assembly in March, with subsequent amendments and proposals from both chambers leading to the final agreement. This resolution underscores the commitment to supporting devolution and ensuring adequate resources for county development.
