Governor Wanga refutes CoB report showing Homa Bay did not spend money on development projects

Homa Bay was listed among ten counties that did not spend any funds on development in the first quarter.

The County, in a press statement, assured the public that its expenditure aligns with budgetary allocations, citing progress in various development projects from the stated July to September period.

“During the first quarter of the financial year, Homa Bay County made significant progress in various development projects and initiatives focused on improving infrastructure, healthcare, education, and other key sectors,” stated the County Government.

Governor Gladys Wanga dismissed the claims noting achievements the County has made progress in various development projects focused on improving infrastructure, healthcare and education.

“Notable achievements during our tenure include the completion of the Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay, construction of the Outpatient Department at the County Referral Hospital, maternity unit at the Rachuonyo District Hospital, Magina Health Centre, Miniambo, among other hospitals,” read the statement.

Wanga also cited the purchase of tractors, upgraded ECDE centres, and interventions on the Kigoto Maize Mill as development projects within the financial year. 

The County boss also attributed challenges to irregular disbursements from the National Treasury, stating that the county received only one capitation during the entire quarter. 

“In addition, disbursements from the National Treasury have been irregular, with capitation for July only available for use at the end of August and the August capitation not arriving until October 2023, outside of the first quarter i.e. the period under review. This meant that we only received one capitation in the entire quarter,” she said.

The County revealed that it is actively collaborating with authorities to address the issue.

In the report, the Controller of Budget Margaret Nyakang’o reported that Embu, Nairobi, Kericho, Kilifi, Machakos, Samburu, Turkana, Wajir, and West Pokot counties had also not spent money on development.

The CoB said the counties redirected funds to salaries and operational expenses.