By Cynthia A. Otieno
In a key step toward shaping the county’s development trajectory, Uasin Gishu County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Finance and Economic Planning, Micah Rogony, on Wednesday presented a Ksh 10.18 billion budget for the 2025/2026 financial year before the County Assembly. The comprehensive spending plan is strategically aligned with the county’s vision under the NGUZO KUMI development framework, a transformative ten-pillar agenda championed by H.E. Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii.
Themed “Accelerating Implementation of Nguzo Kumi in the County for Socio-Economic Transformation,” the budget reflects the administration’s focus on scaling up key priority areas that aim to stimulate inclusive growth, enhance service delivery, and foster sustainability.
Driving Development through Nguzo Kumi
Nguzo Kumi—Swahili for “Ten Pillars”—represents the cornerstone of Governor Bii’s governance strategy, which seeks to holistically address the county’s developmental needs through targeted interventions across strategic sectors. These pillars include:
- Agriculture and Food Security
- Universal Healthcare Access
- Education and Youth Empowerment
- Infrastructure and ICT
- Trade, Industrialization, and Investment Promotion
- Environmental Conservation and Water Resource Management
- Social Protection
- Sports, Culture and Talent Development
- Public Service Transformation
- Governance, Accountability, and Citizen Engagement
“In line with the Nguzo Kumi transformative agenda, we have prioritised some key areas crucial in driving the county's economy and improving livelihoods for all our residents,” said Mr. Rogony during the budget presentation.
Budget Breakdown: Sector-by-Sector Highlights
1. Infrastructure and ICT – Ksh 2.595 Billion
A significant allocation has been directed towards infrastructure development and ICT, as the county seeks to modernize transport systems and promote digital inclusion.
- Ksh 40 million will go towards the fielding of county machinery and equipment to aid in public works and project implementation.
- Ksh 30 million has been allocated for securing burrow pits, which are essential for sustainable road construction and maintenance.
- Ksh 97 million will fund the construction of 11 strategic bridges and box culverts to improve connectivity and reduce transportation bottlenecks in rural and urban areas.
This investment is expected to create employment, ease mobility, and open up markets, especially for agricultural produce.
2. Agriculture and Food Security – Ksh 954.579 Million
As a largely agrarian county, Uasin Gishu has reinforced its commitment to agricultural transformation.
The allocation will support key value chains including:
- Dairy farming – Enhancing milk production through support to cooperative societies and provision of cooling facilities.
- Potato and maize farming – Provision of quality seeds, mechanization, and training for farmers.
- Poultry and coffee farming – Boosting agribusiness through extension services and access to markets.
- Agri-tech initiatives – Promoting climate-smart agriculture and post-harvest management technologies.
These interventions aim to boost food security, increase farmer incomes, and contribute to national food reserves.
3. Health Sector – Ksh 2.4 Billion
Access to affordable and quality healthcare remains a top priority.
- Ksh 90 million will be used for the construction of the Uasin Gishu County Diagnostic Centre, which will offer specialized diagnostic services and reduce the need for referrals to distant facilities.
- Ksh 60 million has been set aside for the Moiben Sub-County Hospital, expanding healthcare access to underserved populations.
The county is also investing in upgrading existing health facilities, expanding NHIF coverage, and ensuring consistent supply of essential medicines.
4. Education and Youth Empowerment
Recognizing the central role of youth in development, the county has introduced key programs to empower the next generation:
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Ksh 40 million has been allocated to the Fanikisha Hustle Initiative, which equips youth with practical skills and startup tools through Vocational Training Centres (VTCs). The initiative aims to nurture entrepreneurship and reduce youth unemployment.
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Ksh 100 million has been earmarked for the Internship Program, which will provide practical work experience to recent graduates, enhancing their employability.
“This initiative is not just about employment, but empowerment—ensuring graduates gain practical skills to thrive in a competitive job market,” noted the CECM.
5. Water and Environmental Management
The county has also prioritized water access and conservation, recognizing that water is a critical enabler of health, agriculture, and industry. Though specific allocations were not detailed in the initial statement, a comprehensive water infrastructure plan is expected to be unveiled in the subsequent budget phases.
Continuity and Completion of Legacy Projects
The administration underscored its commitment to completing key development projects initiated by the previous administration, ensuring that public resources are not wasted and that residents reap the full benefits of long-term investment.
This includes ongoing hospital upgrades, road networks, market infrastructure, and stalled education facilities.
“We believe in continuity. It’s not just about launching new projects but completing what has already begun so our people can fully benefit from the vision laid out for this county,” Mr. Rogony emphasized.
Public Service Digitization and Citizen Engagement
The county also announced ongoing efforts to digitize public services and enhance access for all citizens. Residents can now access various county services using the USSD code:
*Dial 764# to interact with county services, make inquiries, and access e-governance platforms.
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