Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has defended the Sh4 million allocated for revenue collection clerks’ allowances, arguing that the funds have been instrumental in doubling the county’s revenue.
Speaking in response to concerns raised over the expenditure, Waiguru emphasized that the 2023/2024 financial year allowances were necessary to motivate staff to work longer hours, leading to a significant increase in Own Source Revenue from Sh300 million to Sh700 million.
“This Sh4 million they are talking about is allowances for the entire year for our revenue collectors, whom I have given a target of Sh700 million. The revenue collectors have to be at the market at 4 AM and leave at 10 PM, and the least we can do is facilitate them to do the work,” Waiguru stated.
She explained that the payments covered lunch and breakfast allowances for clerks stationed in markets throughout the year. The revenue officials, she added, endure early mornings and late nights to meet collection targets, making it essential to support them.
Audit Scrutiny and Senate Queries
Waiguru made the remarks at the county headquarters in Kutus during the launch of the national government’s health digitization initiative.
Addressing scrutiny from a Senate audit query, she dismissed concerns over the allowances, maintaining that the county was fairly compensating workers for their efforts.
“If I am spending Sh4 million to collect Sh400 million, then that is good mathematics. I will ensure my staff are facilitated and motivated to do their work and meet their targets. We must be fair to our staff,” she said.
New Revenue Target: Sh800 Million
Governor Waiguru also announced a new revenue collection target of Sh800 million, emphasizing that achieving this goal would require continued staff motivation.
“I have been a civil servant myself and understand what staff go through to ensure service delivery. We want to increase our revenue collection target to Sh800 million, and this can only be achieved by a motivated workforce,” she added.
She urged county employees to maintain their dedication, assuring them of ongoing support to help them deliver on their targets.
At the same time, Waiguru reaffirmed that her administration remains focused on service delivery and development, ensuring that financial policies align with county growth and efficiency.
Stay tuned for more updates on county governance and financial accountability in Kenya.
