Kericho County: Where tea fields merge with breath-taking landscapes
Over the past ten years of devolution, considerable resources have been allocated to Kericho County to improve service delivery to its citizens. To evaluate the impact of these investments, a team from the Commission on Revenue Allocation (CRA) led by Commissioner Koitamet Olekina conducted an extensive field assessment.
Kericho County is known for its most iconic feature – the tea plantations. Often referred to as the “tea capital of Kenya,” this region boasts vast expanses of tea estates, producing some of the finest tea in the world. A visit to Kericho County is most certainly an unforgettable experience that leaves one yearning to return. As you drive through the winding roads, the vibrant green tea leaves create a mesmerizing sight, giving the landscape an enchanting aura. This county, located in the western part of the country, has captivated the hearts of locals and tourists alike with its serene beauty, rich cultural heritage, and hospitality. Whether you seek tranquillity amidst nature, a taste of Kenyan culture, or thrilling adventures, this county has it all.
Since the implementation of devolution in Kenya, the Constitution of 2010 has sought to promote equitable social and economic development by establishing a governance structure consisting of national and county governments. CRA plays a crucial role in ensuring the objectives of devolution are achieved by recommending the basis for equitable sharing of revenue raised nationally between the national and the county governments (vertical) and among the county governments (horizontal).
Health
During the assessment, the team visited the Kericho Referral Hospital oxygen plant, which was found to be complete and operational. The hospital, however, has an inoperative compressor, leading to empty oxygen cylinders. Furthermore, the Kaitui Trauma Centre, despite being established, lacked adequate medical personnel and proper waste disposal mechanisms. Similarly, patients at Kenegut Dispensary only access prescription-only services, and essential drugs are lacking. Also, staff shortages in this health facilities posed challenges to the effective operation of medical services.
Agriculture
The Soin Agricultural Centre was operational and appreciated by the community. There was, however, a need for additional staff and better management of pest infestations. The Hay Production and Holding Centre was promising, with high production levels and a demand for expanded acreage. Nevertheless, artificial insemination services were hampered due to lack of semen supply.
Ruskebei Dairy Farmers Cooperative Society, co-funded by the county and farmers has been instrumental in supporting farmers by providing resources and training. However, fluctuating milk prices and a lack of transportation vehicles have hindered its growth.
Water
The Lelaitich/Mau water project was popular as it had helped the community reduce waterborne diseases. The Kosisit primary school, however, lacked access to tap water, reflecting the need for further improvement in water services in some areas.
Education
Although progress was noted in Kericho County’s education, Kosisit Primary School with 522 pupils faced challenges like incomplete classrooms and uncertain contractual terms of ECDE teachers. Additionally, the absence of tap water at the school posed difficulties in providing a conducive learning environment.
Roads
The County’s roads, including Sachangwan-Chepkoinik Primary, Samutet-Chemobei, and Kosisit-Ainopng’okik River, were impassable. Although their initiation had significantly improved business and security in the area, the roads in Londiani Market were still impassable and lacked proper markings and drainage.
The assessment of service delivery in Kericho County highlights both achievements and challenges during the devolution period. Significant strides have been made in various sectors, such as healthcare, agriculture, water, and infrastructure, positively impacting the lives of citizens. The County must, however, prioritize the resolution of key issues like staff shortages, inadequacy of resources, and incomplete projects for devolution to have more meaning for the ordinary citizen.
The findings from the assessment provides critical evidence to help in the formulation of the Fourth Basis for Revenue Sharing Among County Governments.
Read more about the Third Basis for Revenue Sharing Among County Governments.
