Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has lauded devolution
for playing a key role in effectively delivering services to the people at the
lowest level of the life pyramid.
The Governor noted that counties function as devolved states hence enabling the delivery of services to people in informal settlements
"After 10 years of devolution, counties must be stronger and in good shape to serve the people - the principle of subsidiarity - serve people effectively at the lowest level,” he said.
Sakaja expressed his confidence in counties delivering services effectively during a pivotal exit audit meeting with Nairobi County Executives and representatives from the office of the Auditor General.
He emphasised the importance of transparency, setting clear deliverables and maintaining openness in the Auditor General’s Office.
Further, he attributed the county’s revenue growth to the digitisation of all revenue streams, a move that he says has significantly boosted efficiency and transparency.
He credited the Sh12.8 billion revenue collected in the last financial year, to a robust digital revenue collection system, that has been implemented by his administration.
“This is a remarkable rise from previous years. Last year, we collected Sh12.81 billion. And these gains are credited to the digitised revenue collection system,” Sakaja said before the Senate County Public Accounts and Investments Committee (CPAIC).
The Governor reiterated the need to implore consultative economic viability with local and international partners to create a pragmatic and realistic economic hub generated by the County Aggregated Industrial Parks Programme for the people of Nairobi.
Sakaja emphasized that the digitisation of revenue streams has enhanced the county’s ability to meet its financial obligations, paving the way for improved service delivery and development projects.
The administration’s focus on innovation and accountability is being hailed as a critical step in transforming Nairobi’s financial management and boosting public trust in local governance.
Governor Sakaja also encouraged other counties to adopt similar systems, emphasising that digitization could significantly enhance their revenue collection and accountability.