‎‎Kericho has so far collected at least Kh943 million (7.3 million) in own-source revenue during the current financial year, anchoring the county on track to surpass the Ksh1 billion (7.7 million) target before the end of the month.

‎The remarkable milestone in revenue collection was revealed during Devolution at 12 Conference at Kiprugut Chumo Stadium in Kericho Town, where stakeholders convened to reflect on the 12-year journey of the devolved system of governance.

‎Speaking during the conference, Kericho Governor Eric Mutai disclosed that in the health sector, the average distance to a health facility has reduced from 7 kilometres in 2012 to 3.7 kilometres in 2024, noting that the county’s investments in infrastructure, personnel and equipment had enabled local hospitals to undertake complex procedures, including neurological and cardio thoracic surgeries, which were previously inaccessible.

On infrastructure, Dr Mutai said the county has expanded its road network, with new feeder roads opening up remote areas, improving accessibility and stimulating economic activity in Kericho County.

He also highlighted the construction of modern markets in the county aimed at supporting small-scale traders and revitalising local commerce through improved trading environments.

‎In the agriculture sector, the governor said that the number of active cooperatives had grown from just 69 before devolution to over 600 in 2024, adding that the cooperatives had given farmers greater access to inputs, markets and training opportunities, enhancing productivity and income.

‎Despite the milestones, Dr Mutai acknowledged persistent challenges facing the county, including underfunding by the national government, a rising wage bill, and high recurrent expenditures that had continued to limit development financing.

‎”For the first time since devolution began, Kericho’s revenue outlook is remarkably positive. There is, however, a need for sustainable policies and efficient systems to strengthen service delivery and deepen the benefits of devolution for local residents,” Dr Mutai said.

‎The conference that was convened in collaboration with the office of the Kericho Senator provided a platform for stakeholders to share experiences, propose solutions and reflect on the progress and setbacks experienced over the past 12 years under devolved governance.

‎Kericho Senator and Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot said the conference marked a turning point in how the county, its leadership and residents would engage going forward. He assured residents of robust consultations, and insights gathered from key stakeholders placed the people at the centre of every development. He said empowering residents to determine priority development areas reflected the true spirit of devolution.

‎The Senate Leader of Majority emphasized that with a shared focus on accountability, transparency, and inclusive planning, Kericho now stands at a critical juncture where service delivery and people-cantered development must take precedence.

‎”As a strong advocate of devolution, I will push for increased resources for counties, demand accountability and lobby for the swift completion of stalled projects. Devolution is not a political option but a constitutional and economic necessity,” Cheruiyot said.

‎Also present at the event were Legislators Nelson Koech (Belgut), Benjamin Langat (Ainamoi),  Joseph Cherorot (Kipkelion East), Justice Kemei (Soin/Sigowet), Dr Patrick C. Mutai (Speaker, Kericho County Assembly), Members of the County Assembly, County Executive Committee Members, Chief Officers, the County Budget Office, budget officers from the Senate, and other local leaders.

‎Devolution at 12 Conference concluded with a commitment to formulate actionable, measurable, and locally responsive policy resolutions to strengthen the impact of devolution in Kericho County.

• ‎ A Tell Media / KNA report / By Kibe Mburu

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Kericho County Governor Dr Eric Mutai, Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot and other local leaders during the Devolution at 12 conference held at the Kirugut Chumo Stadium in Kericho Town.