News Categories: GPS

H. E Governor Stephen Sang joined fellow county leaders at the Council of Governors (CoG) Executive and Liaison, Management, and Business Committees retreat in Naivasha, where key discussions centered on strengthening devolution, enhancing county funding, and fostering intergovernmental collaboration.

Speaking at the retreat, Governor Sang emphasized the need for equitable resource allocation to ensure counties effectively deliver services to their residents. “Devolution has transformed governance at the grassroots level, but we must remain vigilant in advocating for the resources needed to fully implement devolved functions,” he stated.

One of the major resolutions passed at the retreat was the call for the reinstatement of KES 400.1 billion as the equitable share for counties. Governor Sang noted that timely and adequate funding is crucial for sustaining development projects in Nandi, particularly in agriculture, health, and sports tourism.

“The people of Nandi, like many other counties, rely on county government programs for essential services. Ensuring full disbursement of funds will enable us to complete critical infrastructure projects and support our farmers and athletes,” he remarked.

The governors also agreed to fast-track legislative reviews and intergovernmental sector forums to streamline service delivery. Governor Sang highlighted the importance of such collaboration, especially in sectors like agriculture and sports.

“As the Source of Champions, Nandi has positioned itself as a leader in sports tourism. Strengthening partnerships with the national government and private sector will enhance our training facilities, such as the Eliud Kipchoge Stadium, and attract more investments,” he noted.

Additionally, the retreat resolved that county governments would cease contributions to Tier II under the NSSF Act, Cap 258, aligning with the legal exemption for counties with pension schemes funded by the Consolidated Fund. This move is expected to ease financial burdens on counties and allow for more investment in priority areas.

Governor Sang reiterated his commitment to ensuring that Nandi County remains at the forefront of devolution success. With increased funding, stronger governance structures, and improved partnerships, he envisions a county that continues to thrive in economic development, agriculture, and sports excellence.

“The future of devolution depends on our ability to work together as leaders and ensure that resources reach the people. Nandi County is ready to seize every opportunity to improve livelihoods and empower our communities,” he concluded.

As the discussions at the CoG retreat shape the future of county governance, Nandi residents can expect renewed efforts to enhance service delivery and unlock new growth opportunities across the county.

H. E. Stephen Sang joined fellow county leaders in a high-level consultative meeting between the Council of Governors (COG) and the County Assemblies Forum (CAF) to deliberate on emerging challenges in implementing the 2024/25 budget and recurrent expenditure ceilings. The meeting, chaired by COG Chair FCPA H.E. Ahmed Abdullahi EGH, sought to streamline financial frameworks that directly impact county service delivery.

One of the key resolutions from the meeting was the need to speak with a unified voice in pushing for increased resources for counties. Governor Sang emphasized that counties like Nandi, which rely heavily on agriculture, sports tourism, and infrastructural development, require adequate funding to fulfill their mandates effectively.

“For devolution to truly work for the people, counties must receive sufficient resources to implement development projects and pay staff on time. We cannot deliver quality healthcare, roads, and water services with financial constraints,” Governor Sang stated.

The leaders agreed to push for a more transparent and fair allocation of funds to ensure counties are not crippled by inadequate budgetary provisions.

Another major outcome was the joint resolution to rationalize laws governing recurrent expenditure ceilings. This move aims to prevent unnecessary financial bottlenecks that hinder county operations. Governor Sang highlighted that such restrictions often limit the hiring of essential staff, delay project execution, and affect service delivery.

“We support financial accountability, but we must also ensure that counties are not suffocated by rigid ceilings that prevent us from delivering services to the people,” he added.

Governor Sang reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that Nandi residents benefit from a well-funded and effectively managed devolved government.

“We will continue pushing for policies that enable counties to thrive and serve wananchi better. A well-funded county is a well-developed county,” he concluded.

In a significant move to enhance economic growth in the North Rift region, the North Rift Economic Bloc (NOREB) is engaging in discussions with the Kerio Valley Development Authority (KVDA) to explore collaborative opportunities. This partnership aims to leverage KVDA’s technical expertise and resource mobilization capabilities to drive sustainable development across NOREB counties.

During a consultative meeting with KVDA’s senior management, led by Board Chairman Hon. Mark Chesergon, key leaders from NOREB counties emphasized the need for a structured collaboration framework. Among those present were H.E. Benjamin Cheboi, Governor of Baringo County; H.E. Wesley Rotich, Governor of Elgeyo Marakwet County; and Dr. Godfrey Chesang, CEO of NOREB, alongside other senior officials.

This partnership is expected to unlock new growth avenues, with a focus on infrastructure development, agriculture, environmental conservation, and economic empowerment initiatives. By establishing clear mandates and responsibilities, NOREB and KVDA aim to create long-term, impactful programs that align with the region’s development agenda.

The North Rift Economic Bloc plays a crucial role in driving regional transformation, and this collaboration with KVDA marks a milestone in enhancing its capacity to implement high-impact projects. With a shared vision for economic prosperity, both entities are committed to fostering innovation, mobilizing resources, and ensuring sustainable development that benefits communities across the bloc.

As discussions progress, stakeholders remain optimistic that this strategic alignment will catalyze new opportunities, reinforcing NOREB’s position as a key driver of economic growth in Kenya’s North Rift region.

Nandi County is making significant strides in realizing a world-class sports infrastructure, a key milestone in the county’s commitment to nurturing athletic excellence. The technical team of engineers and architects is already on-site at the expansive 25-acre parcel of land at the Nandi Showground, marking the beginning of a transformative journey. The current Kipchoge Keino Stadium, limited to just 8.7 acres, could not accommodate the ambitious plans for a modern sports facility, necessitating the relocation and expansion of the project.

The upcoming state-of-the-art sports complex will include both outdoor and indoor arenas, catering to all sports disciplines and featuring associated facilities that will set a new standard for sports development in the county and beyond. This facility is expected to not only enhance local sporting activities but also position Nandi as a premier training destination, aligning with its legacy as the “Source of Champions.”

We extend our sincere gratitude to H.E. President William Samoei Ruto and the Kenya Kwanza administration for prioritizing the construction of Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Kapsabet as part of the AFCON 2027 training infrastructure. This project underscores the government’s commitment to sports excellence and talent development.

In a recent meeting with Cabinet Secretary H.E. Salim Mvurya and Principal Secretary Eng. Peter K. Tum, it was resolved that the implementation of the project be expedited. The Ministry and the County Government will soon receive and jointly review the stadium designs before proceeding with the site handover and the official commencement of construction.

With this major investment, Nandi County is set to become a regional sports powerhouse, offering world-class training facilities for both local and international athletes. The journey towards this ambitious vision has begun, and we look forward to witnessing the transformation that will shape the future of sports in our county.

Earlier today, the Deputy Governor H. E Dr Yulita Cheruiyot hosted a team from Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA), led by Executive Director Dr. Rose Ngugi and held a meeting with Chief Officers, Directors, County Nutritionist and Economists from various departments.

Discussions centred around areas of collaboration, particularly where the county could benefit from KIPPRA’s capacity building and research trainings in public policy formulation processes and socio-economic analysis.The meeting also focused on partnerships and collaboration between the county government and the Institute on key issues including the Public Affairs Index, County Business Environment for MSMEs, County Nutrition Index, and County Climate Change Preparedness Index, among others.

Further, the meeting sought to strengthen county’s collaboration with KIPPRA, focusing on training county officers in public policy-making processes and tools, formulating effective policies, and accessing essential policy documents and information.

#ContinuedTransformation

#Winchit

A team from the Nairobi Centre for International Arbitration (NCIA) earlier on paid a courtesy visit to the Office of the County Attorney, aiming to explore areas of collaboration and partnership aimed at promoting Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms within the county.

The meeting fostered a productive exchange of ideas and aspirations, with discussions centering around various key areas of mutual interest.

NCIA, established in 2013 under the Nairobi Centre for International Arbitration Act No. 26 of 2013, is a leading institution dedicated to the promotion of international commercial arbitration and alternative dispute resolution methods.

Representing NCIA at the meeting were David Wambua, Victor Okech and Godwin Radiro. The County Attorney led the office in the meeting.

Nairobi Centre for International Arbitration – NCIA

#ContinuedTransformation

Inviting Nandi Residents

To Commemorate The International Women’s Day

Date: Wednesday March 8, 2023

Venue: Kapsabet Bible College

Attorneys and lawyers drawn from North Rift Economic Bloc (NOREB) counties of West Pokot, Nandi, Uasin-Gishu and Baringo have this morning paid a courtesy call on Governor Simon Kachapin and his deputy governor Robert Komolle to seek their support ahead of NOREB Bill ratification by the member county assemblies.

Led by NOREB’s CEO Dr. Godfrey Chesang and Uasin-Gishu County Attorney Stephen Lel who’s also the Chairman of NOREB County Attorneys’ forum, said the first draft of the bill is expected to be submitted during Noreb’s summit on 1st February, 2022 and signed by 14th February by member governors.

Governor Kachapin said passing of the bill is long overdue and the process needed to be expedited to ensure the bill is assented by April, 2022.

“I’m happy with the timeline and the speed you’re moving at. We hope by April we should have ratified it and given NOREB the needed legal status,” said Governor Kachapin.

The governor said the bill would give the integration a legal backing and a structured operational framework needed for the bloc to realize its full potential.

He further said NOREB governors have agreed to give the bloc the necessary support needed to ratify the bill and implement its goals.

Deputy Governor Robert Komolle echoed the governor’s sentiments saying West Pokot County and its County assembly were united and would see to it that the legislation is passed in line with the timelines.

The Noreb bill seeks to give the integration a legal backing and a structured operational framework.

Deputy Governor Dr. Yulita Cheruiyot led Nandi residents in celebrating International Day of People Living with Disabilities.

The celebrations held at AIC Kapsabet Bible College was graced by CECM for Education Scolastica Tuwei and County Assembly Speaker Philemon Meli among other dignitaries.

International Day of Person’s with Disabilities (IDPD) is a UN Day that is celebrated every year on 3rd December. It’s a day to help everyone become more compassionate and understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities.

The Deputy Governor reiterated that not every disability is visible, adding that this day is important in recognizing and celebrating the equal rights and dignity of disabled people.

“We reaffirm our commitment to building a world where people with disabilities are afforded equal opportunities, independence and respect they deserve,” said the Deputy Governor.

Mrs Tuwei said the county will partner with stakeholders to ensure all PLWDs are reached with free medical checkups and provided with assistive devices.

“For the success of the day to celebrate the PLWD’s, we appreciate the partnership with Chepsoo/White Crescent Medical Center, EPK, Chepkumia Tea Factory, Lessos Dairies, Kenya Society For The Blind and Bethany Kits among others,” said Tuwei.