Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, on Monday, announced the government’s commitment to disbursing all allocated funds to counties despite financial challenges following the withdrawal of the Finance Bill 2024.
Gachagua was speaking during the 24th Ordinary Session of the Intergovernmental Budget and Economic Council (IBEC) at his Official Residence in Karen, Nairobi.
He assured the County Chiefs that the financial allocations for the last financial year had been fully disbursed and that the National Treasury was working on clearing the pending monthly allocations to the devolved units.
Deputy President Hon Rigathi Gachagua during Karen meeting on August 26. Photo: Rigathi Gachagua Source: Facebook
“During the last financial year (2023/24), The National Treasury transferred Ksh 354.5 billion to counties by June 30, 2024, representing 92% of the total equitable share due. The outstanding amount of Ksh 30.83 billion for June was released in July,” Gachagua noted.
He also urged governors to clear pending bills in their counties to boost the economy, highlighting that National Government pending bills had decreased to Ksh 516 billion as of June 30, 2024.
National Treasury CS John Mbadi revealed that plans are underway to release funds covering July and August by September 2024, addressing concerns over delayed salaries in the counties.
Deputy President Hon Rigathi Gachagua gestures during a past engagement on August 26. Photo: Rigathi Gachagua Source: Facebook
Gachagua further encouraged governors to work closely with the Controller of Budget, Margaret Nyakang’o, to implement effective budgetary measures.
The IBEC resolved to make necessary budget adjustments following the Finance Bill’s withdrawal, allowing counties to engage the Senate on the matter.
Also, Gachagua also asked the governors to work closely with the Controller of Budget, Margaret Nyakang’o, to implement recommended measures to effectively address matters through the budgetary processes.
On President Ruto’s directive on the need for equal sharing of revenue from national parks, the DP revealed that progress is being made to address the issue quickly as directed by the President.
