Governor Natembeya Pushes Procurement Reforms as Trans Nzoia Rolls Out New World Bank-Funded Projects

Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has called for far-reaching procurement reforms and stronger accountability measures to improve the implementation of development projects under the Kenya Devolution Support Programme Phase II (KDSP II).

Speaking while chairing the County Project Steering Committee (CPSC) meeting to review the county's Annual Progress Report for the 2025/2026 Financial Year, the governor said transparency, proper documentation and strict adherence to procurement laws are essential in ensuring public resources deliver tangible benefits to residents.

Natembeya emphasized that accurate record-keeping and evidence-based management would not only enhance accountability but also ensure projects are implemented efficiently and in accordance with legal requirements.

The governor observed that procurement remains one of the most critical components of project implementation and should be fully integrated into the Kenya Devolution Support Programme to strengthen oversight and improve value for money.

He challenged county officials to uphold high standards of integrity even after the programme concludes, noting that the systems and best practices introduced through the World Bank-supported initiative should become part of the county's normal way of doing business.

According to Natembeya, the accountability standards required under the World Bank programme reflect what should already be the norm in public service across all county departments.

To further strengthen project management, the governor endorsed the establishment of a Single Project Management Unit (SPMU) that will coordinate both World Bank-funded and county-funded development projects.

He directed all Chief Officers to support departmental SPMUs and ensure regular progress reports are submitted to his office to facilitate continuous monitoring and timely decision-making.

Natembeya said the proposed unit will help guarantee that projects are implemented in accordance with the law, completed within agreed timelines and managed transparently from inception to completion.

The governor also underscored the need for continuous capacity building for county staff, particularly officers involved in budgeting, procurement and the management of pending bills.

He noted that improving budget preparation and financial planning would play a significant role in addressing the persistent challenge of pending bills while enhancing service delivery across county departments.

Natembeya further acknowledged the continued support of the World Bank and the county government's co-funding towards the Kenya Devolution Support Programme, describing the partnership as instrumental in accelerating development across Trans Nzoia.

He announced that several major projects are lined up under KDSP II, including the construction of new roads, rehabilitation of the historic Kitale Museum, construction of inpatient and outpatient facilities at Tulwet Health Centre and the establishment of a modern fire station in Kiminini Sub-County.

The governor said the projects are expected to improve access to healthcare, strengthen emergency response services, preserve cultural heritage and enhance transport infrastructure, ultimately contributing to economic growth and improved quality of life for residents.

Trans Nzoia County KDSP II Coordinator Emeldah Agoi said the steering committee meeting provided an important opportunity to assess the county's progress in implementing key initiatives while identifying areas that require improvement.

Agoi noted that the programme continues to strengthen institutional capacity and improve governance systems within the county government, ensuring development projects are delivered more effectively.

Matisi Ward Member of County Assembly Obed Mahanga Mwale reaffirmed the County Assembly's commitment to prudent management of public resources and oversight of development programmes.

He emphasized that every public investment should translate into measurable benefits for residents, adding that accountability and transparency must remain central to county development initiatives.

The meeting brought together senior county officials, including County Secretary Truphosa Amere, Finance CEC Dr. Wanjala Pepela, Health CEC Christopher Lorot, Gender, Youth, Sports, Culture and Tourism CEC Eliud Kurgat, Water, Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change CEC Robert Wamalwa, Chief Officers and members of the County Project Implementation Unit (CPIU).

The Kenya Devolution Support Programme Phase II is designed to strengthen county governments by improving institutional capacity, public financial management, service delivery and accountability, with support from the World Bank and the national government.