The mediation committee of the Senate and the National Assembly has finalized an agreement to allocate Sh400.1 billion to the 47 counties for the upcoming 2024/25 financial year.
This allocation marks a notable increase of Sh15 billion compared to the previous fiscal period, where counties were granted Sh385 billion.
The deal, struck on Monday evening, culminated from intensive negotiations between the two legislative bodies, resolving a deadlock that emerged due to disparate proposals. Initially, the Senate advocated for Sh415 billion for counties, while the National Assembly leaned towards a lower figure of Sh391 billion.
Following intense deliberations and rounds of consultations, both chambers demonstrated a willingness to compromise. The Senate agreed to revise its proposal downwards, while the National Assembly adjusted its stance upwards, ultimately leading to the agreed allocation of Sh400.1 billion.
This allocation represents the highest ever since the inception of the devolved system of governance, signaling a commitment to bolstering local-level administration and service delivery across the nation.
The agreement underscores the importance of collaborative decision-making in ensuring equitable distribution of resources and fostering unity among Kenya's legislative bodies.
Mediation Committee Agrees on Record Allocation for Counties in 2024/25 Fiscal Year