Murang’a County Achieves Record Revenue Collection of Over Sh1 Billion.
Murang’a County has achieved a significant milestone by collecting over Sh1 billion in own-source revenue for the financial year ending June 30. This is a landmark achievement, considering the previous administration collected approximately Sh500 million annually.
Celebrating a Milestone
County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Finance, Prof. Kiarie Mwaura, expressed joy over this achievement. “We are celebrating as a county because, for the first time, we have been able to collect over Sh1 billion,” he said. The automation of revenue collection has been a game-changer, enabling residents to pay for services electronically and closing loopholes that previously led to revenue loss.
Significant Increase in Revenue
In the 2022-2023 financial year, Murang’a County collected about Sh700 million, a figure that has nearly doubled this year without increasing service charges since 2018. “We have managed to collect this much without necessarily increasing any taxes that could overburden the taxpayers,” Prof. Mwaura noted.
The Department of Health leads in revenue collection, amassing Sh360 million in 2023-2024, up from Sh120 million in the previous financial year. Prof. Mwaura attributed this success to the dedicated efforts of county employees, who have become more diligent and vigilant, driven by the transparent use of collected funds for county development.
Impact of Revenue Collection
The revenue collected is being utilized in several impactful ways:
- Healthcare: Funds are used to purchase medicine and employ medical staff for health facilities.
- Smart City Programme: This initiative focuses on tarmacking urban areas and improving drainage.
- Inua Mkulima Programme: Provides subsidies for farmers.
- ECDE Porridge Programme: Supplies porridge to 42,000 children in Early Childhood Development Education centers.
- Kang’ata Care: Offers free healthcare for the vulnerable.
- Bursaries: Provides educational support to students.
Commendations and Future Goals
Prof. Mwaura praised all involved in the revenue collection process, including sub-county revenue officers and parking attendants, for their stellar performance. Looking ahead, Murang’a County aims to continue improving revenue collection, setting a target of Sh1.5 billion for the 2024-2025 financial year.
Automation Drives Success
The shift to an automated revenue collection system has been pivotal. Launched on September 9, 2022, the system has drastically increased revenue, enabling residents to pay using their gadgets. This shift has eliminated cash payments, reducing opportunities for revenue loss.
Governor Irungu Kang’ata emphasized the impact of these efforts. “The concerted efforts of the CEC, chief officer, sub-county revenue officers, market workers, and parking teams have helped deliver these numbers,” he remarked. The cash raised funds essential programs like the Smart City Programme, Kang’ata Care, Inua Mkulima, ECDE porridge initiative, and healthcare services.
Regional Recognition
A report by the Controller of Budget (CoB) released on Friday highlighted Murang’a County’s outstanding performance in revenue collection within the central region. The county’s own-source revenue increased by 37% from Sh453.67 million to Sh716.44 million within just a year, showcasing the effectiveness of the implemented strategies.
Conclusion
Murang’a County’s achievement of collecting over Sh1 billion in own-source revenue marks a significant milestone in its economic development journey. The successful implementation of an automated revenue collection system, combined with the dedicated efforts of county employees, has not only doubled the revenue but also ensured transparent and effective use of funds for the benefit of all residents. With ambitious targets set for the future, Murang’a County is poised for continued growth and prosperity.
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