Nyeri — Governor Mutahi Kahiga has signed the Nyeri County Finance Bill, 2023, into law, paving the way for amendments to the Nyeri County Revenue Administration Act, 2014. The bill is designed to enhance the county’s revenue streams without raising existing rates for taxes, fees, and charges.

According to Kenya News Agency, the legislation is a strategic move to attain a revenue target of Sh1.3 billion in the fiscal year 2023-2024. This includes funds anticipated from the Nyeri County Health Services Fund. During the signing ceremony, Kahiga underscored that while the bill introduces amendments to expand revenue sources, it does not increase current rates.

The governor highlighted that the revenue collected would be reinvested into community services, ensuring residents benefit from the fruits of devolution. He commended the collaborative efforts of the Executive and the County Assembly, which facilitated the successful passage of the Finance Bill.

Expressing his gratitude, Kahiga acknowledged the Assembly’s dedication to serving the Nyeri populace. Speaker James Gichuhi of the Nyeri County Assembly praised the symbiotic relationship between the two government branches. He emphasized the Assembly’s adherence to legal mandates, including the undertaking of public participation, affirming that the Bill’s resolutions reflect the will of the people.

The Finance Committee Chairman, Atanasio Wakabaire, noted the comprehensive public participation in the bill’s development process, resulting in a finance bill that promises substantial benefits to the residents of Nyeri.

The bill will now be forwarded to the Government Printer for gazettement as stipulated by the Constitution and the County Governments Act, 2012, before it becomes enforceable.

In attendance at the signing were Deputy Governor David Kinaniri, Nyeri Finance County Executive Committee Member (CECM) Robert Thuo, and Members of the County Assembly (MCAs).