The Uasin Gishu government's wage bill of 45 per cent is a major hindrance to development, Governor Jonathan Bii has said.
He said his administration is looking for ways to reduce the wage bill to 35 per cent as required by the law.
“One way to bring down the wage bill is by gradually increasing our own source revenue," Bii said.
The county has centralised revenue collection and licensing at its newly established service centre.
Bii said the centralisation of the collection has helped the county collect Sh1.4 billion own source revenue in the just-ended financial year.
“This is the highest amount we have collected since the onset of devolution. We thank residents of Uasin Gishu for diligently paying their taxes,” he said.
Bii said with improved revenue, the county will step up services.
The governor is working to implement his Nguzo Kumi (10 point) development agenda and has prioritised healthcare, basic education, agriculture and provision of water.
The county boss, who spoke after a tour of the service centre, said all staff have been urged to put more effort in their work to help the county meet its obligations.
He also took time to walk in the streets of Eldoret and mingle with the youth, whom he assured of his commitment to address the issues they raised during protests.
“We value the contribution of the youth and that is why we have given them opportunities at all levels,” Bii said.
He urged the young people to be proactive and tap available opportunities, especially in the ICT sector.
Bii said President William Ruto’s government had created many opportunities for the youth.
“We are all committed to support our youth and ensure they benefit from available opportunities to empower themselves,” he said.
