CONTROLLER OF BUDGET LAUDS MAKUENI COUNTY FOR INNOVATIVE PROJECTS IMPLEMENTATION

Controller of Budget, Dr. Margaret Nyakang’o, has lauded Makueni County’s Solarization Project at the Referral Hospital, describing it as a model initiative that could be replicated in other counties to cut energy costs.

The flagship project for the 2023/2024 financial year is projected to save the hospital Ksh. 7 million annually in electricity bills. By reducing the hospital’s energy expenses and ensuring an uninterrupted power supply, the project aims to significantly enhance the quality of healthcare services.

Dr. Nyakang’o visited Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr. on Friday to present findings from a monitoring exercise conducted by a team from the Controller of Budget’s office, which evaluated the county’s budget implementation for the 2023/24 financial year.

The team assessed several key projects, including the solarization initiative at the Makueni County Referral Hospital, the Kathuma Borehole Water Project and the Makueni Child Protection Centre. These site visits included discussions with stakeholders to review progress, identify challenges and gather feedback.

The COB delegation also reviewed the administration, management and performance of the county’s Own Source Revenue (OSR). Dr. Nyakang’o praised Makueni for surpassing its Ksh. 1 billion OSR target but encouraged the county to push further and aim for its full potential of over Ksh. 2 billion.

She described the overall monitoring exercise as highly positive, noting that while there are a few challenges, the progress of devolution in Makueni is evident and encouraging.