Kisii Governor Simba Arati has tied for the top spot as Kenya’s best-performing county leader.
In the latest 2025 County Governance Performance Index by Politrack Africa.
Also, sharing a 65% approval rating with Kakamega’s Fernandes Barasa.
Released on December 8, the survey assessed all 47 governors on service delivery, financial management, public participation, and citizen satisfaction.
Using computer-assisted telephone interviews and face-to-face methods across counties from November 1 to December 1, with a margin of error of +/-3.4%.
Arati’s strong showing reflects his first-term achievements in boosting local revenue and healthcare amid devolved governance challenges.
Arati excelled in revenue collection, achieving a 178% increase in own-source funds by digitizing payments and curbing leaks, which unlocked more resources for county projects.
He spearheaded a major upgrade of Kisii Town, building modern bus parks, streetlights, walkways, and drainage systems to ease congestion and modernize the capital.
Additionally, his administration launched a 300-bed Mother and Child Wing at Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital, enhancing maternal and pediatric care services.
Other top performers trailed closely: Kirinyaga’s Anne Waiguru at 63%, Narok’s Patrick Ole Ntutu at 62.5%, Homa Bay’s Gladys Wanga at 61.8%, and Isiolo’s Abdi Ibrahim Guyo at 60.9%.
Barasa matched Arati’s lead through Kakamega Care, a low-cost universal health program at KSh 500 per household.
Plus, industrial park development and new markets like Kambi Somali to spur jobs and trade.
The index highlights data-driven insights into public concerns, urging governors to prioritize accountability and development as Kenyans evaluate devolution’s impact.
ALSO READ: MCK Condemns Gachagua’s Attack on Stephen Letoo Over Kariobangi Coverage
