Hard truths. Bold Insights. Real talk.
Data contained in a report by Controller of Budget Margaret Nyakang’o shows that counties spent Sh126.69 billion from the Sh233.69 billion approved for development, giving an absorption rate of 54.21 per cent.
The Controller of Budget's report further reveals that the County Executive continued relying on short-term borrowing to meet payroll obligations maintaining an overdraft facility with Sidian Bank averaging Sh.1.6 billion per month for personnel emoluments, with an outstanding balance of Sh.1.54 billion by March 31, 2026.
Records show ministries and departments sought approval to spend Sh276.7 billion under the emergency clause. However, only Sh206.8 billion was cleared, leaving Sh70 billion without approval.
Wanga acknowledged Nyakang’o as a “strong and capable leader” but argued that her office’s mandate was being stretched beyond budget oversight.
Public universities are facing a deepening financial crisis.
"We need to fix how the financial system and funds flow," she said, calling for better financial management and accountability at the county level.
“We demand that the National Treasury immediately release the funds owed to counties; failure to which, county governments will have no choice but to shut down operations completely,” Abdullahi said.