In Kenya’s devolved government system, the role of a county governor is both strategic and comprehensive, carrying significant responsibilities for managing resources, implementing development initiatives, and safeguarding the interests of the county’s citizens. Here’s an in-depth look at the key functions of a county governor and their remuneration, highlighting what Kenyans are funding and expecting in return.
Main Functions of a County Governor in Kenya
1. Implementing National and County Legislation
The governor serves as the chief executive at the county level, tasked with ensuring both national and county-specific legislation are enforced. This includes overseeing that constitutional mandates are met, such as the delivery of social services and safeguarding citizens’ rights at the county level.
2. Raising Revenue for County Development
To fund county projects, the governor can pursue various revenue-generating avenues, such as:
- Collecting taxes and levies within the county’s jurisdiction.
- Borrowing from financial institutions and negotiating aid.
- Engaging in local and international trade agreements that support economic growth.
- Encouraging domestic investment, which can lead to job creation and economic stability.
3. Managing Public Funds Responsibly
Ensuring that county funds are used prudently and transparently is a critical duty. This includes overseeing county budgets, approving spending plans, and ensuring financial audits comply with national regulations.
4. Combatting Poverty and Ensuring Basic Services
A county governor is responsible for initiatives that improve the standard of living, such as:
- Ensuring access to quality healthcare, education, clean water, and adequate housing.
- Implementing food security policies and sustainable agricultural practices to reduce hunger and promote self-sufficiency.
- Fostering local employment by supporting research, technology, and infrastructure.
5. Representing the County at the National Level
County governors must advocate for their regions in national policy-making spaces. This involves participating in “The Summit,” a national forum for the president and governors, where issues such as national projects, budget allocations, and service delivery are discussed.
6. Overseeing Security and Compliance with Human Rights Standards
Governors work with local security agencies to maintain law and order within their jurisdictions. Additionally, they report on the county’s adherence to democratic values, human rights standards, and international obligations.
7. Reporting and Legislative Responsibilities
Governors are required to provide the county assembly with regular reports on county affairs, especially regarding progress on development plans and any areas needing improvement. This promotes transparency and accountability to the citizens.
8. Building a Competent County Executive Committee
The governor appoints a team of professionals to lead various county departments, subject to approval by the county assembly. These appointments must align with laws governing public service, which include principles of inclusivity, diversity, and professional qualifications.
9. Promoting Economic Competitiveness
The governor actively promotes the county’s economic interests by fostering a business-friendly environment, engaging in trade, and supporting locally competitive industries that contribute to both local and national growth.
Salary of a County Governor in Kenya
As of the most recent structure set by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), a county governor’s monthly salary package totals Ksh 924,000, comprising:
- Basic Salary: Ksh 554,400
- House Allowance: Ksh 200,000
- Market Adjustment: Ksh 169,600
This means that annually, each governor earns Ksh 11,088,000, and over a five-year term, a governor’s total remuneration amounts to Ksh 55,440,000. The cumulative cost of governor salaries across all 47 counties totals nearly Ksh 2.7 billion every five years.
Why Kenyans Should Understand These Roles and Salaries
With governors playing such pivotal roles, transparency in their functions and the efficient use of county resources are essential. Kenyans have the right to know how these leaders are contributing to the welfare and development of their counties in return for the substantial investment of public funds. As counties continue to evolve within the Kenyan devolved governance framework, the performance of county governors will remain under the keen scrutiny of the citizens who elect them.
