Governor Ottichilo signs Vihiga budget into law
County Solicitor James Mukabi assisted the Governor during the signing and received the finalized bill for official publication.
By Juliet Jerotich
Governor Dr. Wilber Ottichilo has officially enacted the Vihiga County Appropriation Bill for the 2025/2026 Financial Year, unlocking crucial funding for essential sectors such as health, education, and infrastructure.
The assent ceremony took place in the Governor’s Boardroom at the County Headquarters, attended by top county officials, including Deputy Governor Wilberforce Kitiezo, County Solicitor James Mukabi, and Budget Committee Chair Patrick Ahwali.
During the event, Governor Ottichilo underscored the importance of completing all county development projects—both ongoing and inherited—and reaffirmed the need for alignment with priorities established during public participation engagements.
“This budget primarily addresses outstanding financial obligations,” Governor Ottichilo noted, pointing out the county’s fiscal challenges. “Capitation remains a concern, especially with the growing number of learners advancing in the education system without adequate support,” he added.
County Solicitor James Mukabi assisted the Governor during the signing and received the finalized bill for official publication.
Budget Chair Patrick Ahwali elaborated on the key components of the newly approved budget. The health sector received substantial allocations, with KSh 7.5 million designated for Level 3 hospitals in all 25 wards to facilitate drug procurement and WiFi installation in support of the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) rollout. Additionally, KSh 200 million was allocated to procure medications for Level 4 hospitals.
In the education sector, KSh 22 million was allocated to settle long-standing salary arrears for Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) teachers, a move aimed at stabilizing the early learning workforce.
Deputy Governor Kitiezo advocated for innovative revenue generation strategies, including partnerships with private entities. He also backed the County Assembly’s proposal to establish a modern legislative plaza to improve service delivery.
The approval and enactment of the budget mark a pivotal moment in Vihiga County’s financial planning, aimed at enhancing service delivery, clearing debts, and accelerating development in the 2025/2026 Financial Year.
About Author
