The Senate has approved an additional Kshs 318.8 million in funding for Vihiga County under the County Government Additional Allocations Bill, 2025, offering critical financial relief after prolonged budget constraints that have hindered local development.
Senator Godfrey Osotsi, who spearheaded a vigorous lobbying campaign for the allocation, hailed the move as a pivotal step towards stabilizing vital services, particularly in the healthcare sector. He emphasized that Vihiga had endured delays in salary payments, stalled development projects, and an overall strain on public services.
“This funding represents a turning point for Vihiga County,” Osotsi remarked. “It will go a long way in restoring essential services and rebuilding the trust of our communities.”
The funds will be disbursed in two phases, with Kshs 159.4 million allocated for May 2025 and the remaining Kshs 159.4 million to follow in June 2025, ensuring a steady cash flow and allowing for better financial planning.
In addition to the national government’s allocation, Vihiga County is poised to benefit from significant international support. The Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA) has pledged Kshs 7.17 million to bolster Primary Health Care, while the World Bank has committed over Kshs 242 million for agricultural development, urban renewal, and the devolution process. Sweden’s SIDA (Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency) has also contributed Kshs 10.92 million towards agribusiness initiatives.
Further assistance from the national government includes Kshs 43.38 million for stipends to Community Health Promoters and Kshs 15.04 million to address salary arrears for doctors under the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
“These combined efforts, from both local and international partners, underscore the power of coordinated leadership,” Osotsi noted. “With this financial boost, Vihiga County can now move forward with dignity, hope, and renewed purpose.”
The additional funding is expected to alleviate some of the pressure on the county’s financial management while providing an immediate impact on public service delivery, especially in healthcare and agriculture.
