Saturday, 18 April, 2026
Kericho County, Tuesday, April 14, 2026
The Senate Standing Committee on Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) has intensified its oversight of revenue systems in county governments, turning its focus to Kericho County with an emphasis on efficiency, accountability and improved service delivery.
During an oversight visit, the Committee engaged Governor Eric Mutai and county officials on the progress and functionality of the county’s revenue management system, amid concerns over operational gaps affecting optimal revenue collection.
In his submission, the Governor reported that Kericho had realized Sh1.79 billion in own source revenue, the highest since the advent of devolution crediting the gains to ongoing automation efforts. He noted, however, that the county’s revenue potential remains higher, dependent on the system’s full implementation.
Committee members observed that effective digital systems play a central role in strengthening public financial management and supporting key service sectors, particularly healthcare.
The Committee also examined factors contributing to revenue leakages, with the Governor citing a shortage of revenue enforcement personnel as a challenge. He, however, pointed to improvements in payroll management through the Human Resource Information System (HRIS), which has streamlined salary payments and helped address financial inconsistencies.
Discussions further touched on the possible transfer of leasing functions from the national government to county governments, with indications that such a move could expand revenue streams, particularly from multinational enterprises operating within counties.
At the Kericho County Referral Hospital, the Committee assessed the performance of the facility’s revenue collection system, where system downtime was cited as a key issue affecting service delivery.
The committee acknowledged the progress made in digitizing revenue collection at the facility but noted the need to address system inefficiencies to ensure seamless operations.
Following a guided tour of the hospital, the Committee maintained its focus on sustained oversight, calling for fully functional and integrated systems that enhance revenue collection while supporting efficient healthcare delivery and overall county performance.