Trans Nzoia Shines as Corruption Crackdown Keeps County Off National ‘List of Shame’

Trans Nzoia County has emerged as a model of prudent resource management after avoiding inclusion in the latest national corruption “list of shame,” according to local oversight leaders and government officials.

Speaking following the release of the 2025 corruption survey in Nairobi, Trans Nzoia County Oversight Anti-Corruption Civilian Oversight Committee Chairman Bishop Raymond Mutama praised the county administration for its commitment to transparency and service delivery. He said the survey results painted a troubling picture for many counties across Kenya, warning that widespread graft continues to threaten the gains of devolution.

Mutama attributed Trans Nzoia’s positive standing to deliberate efforts by Governor George Natembeya to seal loopholes that enable corruption. He noted that county funds are increasingly being directed toward intended development projects, a move he said is already benefiting residents.

“The results show that Trans Nzoia is moving in the right direction. Resources meant for the people are being used appropriately, and this is evident in ongoing development projects,” Mutama said.

The corruption survey was unveiled at a ceremony held at Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi, where Deputy County Secretary George Kisaka represented County Secretary Truphosa Amere. Kisaka emphasized that the county government has prioritized accountability mechanisms to curb misuse of public funds.

“Trans Nzoia is now a corruption-free zone where money allocated for service delivery is prudently utilized. This is why we have not appeared on the list of shame,” Kisaka said. He credited Governor Natembeya’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption as a key factor behind the county’s progress.

Despite the positive report, corruption remains a significant challenge across Kenya’s devolved units. Several counties are currently under investigation for alleged mismanagement of funds and abuse of office, raising concerns about the sustainability of development efforts.

Mutama called on residents to play an active role in combating graft by reporting corruption cases, stressing that public participation is essential in maintaining accountability.

Meanwhile, Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) Chairman Bishop David Oginde warned that the fight against corruption is far from over. He identified procurement fraud, favoritism, and abuse of power as leading causes of stalled development projects in counties.

Oginde revealed that the commission is currently investigating 38 county governments over alleged financial mismanagement and misuse of office. He issued a stern warning that those found culpable will face the full force of the law.

“No one will be spared. We are committed to ensuring accountability at all levels of government,” he said.

As scrutiny intensifies nationwide, Trans Nzoia’s performance is likely to be closely watched as an example of how governance reforms and strict oversight can yield tangible results in public service delivery.