The Controller of Budget (CoB) is questioning devolved units for not efficiently utilizing allocated funds for development, recurrent expenses, and clearing outstanding bills.
From July to December 2023, CoB authorized withdrawals of Sh.174.6 billion for counties from both county revenue funds and operational accounts.
In a report released in February, it was revealed that only 12% of the allocated funds were utilized during this period, with Sh.150.75 billion for recurrent expenses and Sh.23.8 billion for development.
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While counties withdrew over 60% of the authorized funds, they struggled to absorb them effectively.
Baringo County led in budget absorption, utilizing 49% of its allocated funds.
Kitui County followed closely with 40%, and Narok and Uasin Gishu counties ranked third in absorption rates.
Conversely, Machakos County had the lowest absorption rate despite having available funds.
Makueni, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Kwale, and Kakamega also showed low absorption rates, depriving their populations of much-needed development projects.
The Controller of Budget noted that the low absorption rates contributed to a growing pile of pending bills, as counties failed to settle dues with contractors despite having significant funds in their accounts.
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