This archive report was first published on 11 November 2019.
On November 11, 2019, Deputy President William Ruto expressed his appreciation for the efforts of county governments in addressing the issue of pending bills.
Speaking during the Intergovernmental Budget and Economic Council (IBEC) meeting at his Karen Office, Ruto noted that the counties had made significant progress in reducing their outstanding obligations from Ksh 108 billion in June 2018 to Ksh 34.5 billion as of the end of the 2018/2019 financial year.
He emphasized that this move would contribute to Kenya's economic growth and encouraged the counties to continue their efforts in managing their finances effectively.
During the meeting, Ruto assured the counties of the national government's support to ensure their smooth operations and highlighted the progress made by the Treasury in ensuring timely payment of revenue shared with the counties.
He also announced that the disbursement for the first quarter of the 2019/2020 financial year had already been made.
The meeting brought together representatives from both the National and County Governments, including Governors Wycliffe Oparanya, Joseph Ole Lenku, Anyang' Nyong'o, Mutahi Kahiga, Stephen Sang, and Nelson Gaichuhie.
According to Ruto, the Council had agreed on a framework that would enable counties to assess their assets for creditworthiness, allowing them to borrow up to 20 per cent of their revenues.
