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Kericho Poised to Surpass Revenue Target


Kericho: Kericho has so far collected at least Ksh. 943 million in own-source revenue during the current financial year, setting the county on track to surpass the Ksh. 1 billion set mark before the end of the month. The remarkable milestone in revenue collection was revealed during the Devolution at 12 Conference held at Kiprugut Chumo Stadium in Kericho Town, where various stakeholders convened to reflect on the 12-year journey of the devolved system of governance.



According to Kenya News Agency, speaking during the conference, Kericho Governor Dr. Eric Mutai disclosed that in the health sector, the average distance to a health facility had reduced from 7.0 kilometers in 2012 to 3.7 kilometers in 2024. He noted that the county’s investments in infrastructure, personnel, and equipment had enabled local hospitals to undertake complex procedures, including neurological and cardio thoracic surgeries, which were previously inaccessible.



On infrastructure, Dr. Mutai said the county has expanded its road network, with new feeder roads opening up remote areas, improving accessibility and stimulating economic activity across Kericho County. He also highlighted the construction of modern markets across the county aimed at supporting small-scale traders and revitalizing local commerce through improved trading environments.



In the agriculture sector, the governor said that the number of active cooperatives had grown from just 69 before devolution to over 600 in 2024. He added that the cooperatives had given farmers greater access to inputs, markets, and training opportunities, enhancing productivity and income. Despite the milestones, Dr. Mutai acknowledged persistent challenges facing the county, including underfunding from the national government, a rising wage bill, and high recurrent expenditures that had continued to limit development financing.



The conference that was convened in collaboration with the office of the Kericho Senator provided a platform for stakeholders to share experiences, propose solutions, and reflect on the progress and setbacks experienced over the past 12 years under devolved governance. The Kericho Senator who is also the Senate Majority Leader, Aaron Cheruiyot, said the conference marked a turning point in how the county, its leadership, and residents would engage going forward. He assured that the robust consultations and insights gathered from key stakeholders placed the people at the center of every development initiative, adding that empowering residents to determine priority development areas reflected the true spirit of devolution.



The Senate Leader of Majority emphasized that with a shared focus on accountability, transparency, and inclusive planning, Kericho now stands at a critical juncture where service delivery and people-centered development must take precedence. ‘As a strong advocate of devolution, I will push for increased resources for counties, demand accountability, and lobby for the swift completion of stalled projects. Devolution is not a political option but a constitutional and economic necessity.’ said Cheruiyot.



Also present at the event were Legislators Nelson Koech (Belgut), Benjamin Langat (Ainamoi), Joseph Cherorot (Kipkelion East), Justice Kemei (Soin/Sigowet), Dr. Patrick C. Mutai (Speaker, Kericho County Assembly), Members of the County Assembly, County Executive Committee Members, Chief Officers, the County Budget Office, budget officers from the Senate, and other local leaders. The Devolution at 12 Conference concluded with a commitment to formulate actionable, measurable, and locally responsive policy resolutions to strengthen the impact of devolution in Kericho County.