Kakamega: The Council of Governors has issued an urgent appeal to the National Treasury, urging the expedited release of Sh63 billion in arrears owed to counties for February and March. Fernandes Barasa, who chairs the Finance, Planning and Economic Affairs of the Council of Governors, highlighted the financial strain this delay has caused across all 47 counties, with Sh31 billion pending for February and Sh32 billion for March.

According to Kenya News Agency, Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa expressed concerns over the impact this delay has had on service delivery at the county level. He stressed the need for immediate action from the National Treasury to ensure counties can perform their functions efficiently. The delay has affected essential services and development projects within the counties, further challenging the operations of devolved units.

Barasa, speaking in Ikolomani and Khwisero sub-counties during an event for the distribution of free maize seeds and fertiliser to farmers, reiterated the call for timely fund disbursement. He noted that many counties are struggling to maintain operations and fulfill their responsibilities due to the financial constraints imposed by the delayed payments.