This archive report was first published on 11 November 2019.
Kisii Governor James Ongwae has set an ambitious plan to collect Sh550 million in revenue this financial year, warning his revenue officers against laxity.
As part of his efforts to complete key development projects ahead of his term expiry, Ongwae has signed the Kisii County Finance Bill 2019/2020, which was enacted by the county assembly after public participation.
Published on November 11, 2019, the governor has already rolled out an automated process of paying levies and other charges in the county, with a goal of increasing revenue collections.
“As a way of supporting our local community, we don’t intend to increase rates for matatu and boda boda operators. We have also reduced the transport permit fee from Sh20,000 to Sh5,000 per fleet for the benefit of our local transporters,” Ongwae announced.
The administration has identified five strategic areas that will receive substantial funding to spur economic development and growth, including water reticulation, health care, roads development, food security, and trade and enterprise development.
These priorities are aligned to the Big Four agenda, with a plan to implement the Kisii County 2019/20 Development Plan requiring Sh14 billion, out of which Sh6.6 billion will finance development projects and Sh7.4 billion will finance recurrent programmes.
On a visit to Kisii Level Six Teaching and Referral Hospital, Ongwae announced expansion at the facility, which he described as part of his legacy when he leaves office.
“The hospital will be part of my legacy when I leave office. I am proud of the services we are giving the people,” Ongwae told Mr Lyomu, the Standard Group’s Chief Executive Officer.
