The role of a County Governor in Kenya is central to the administration of resources and the provision of services at the county level. Here’s a breakdown of their functions and salary:
Main Functions of a County Governor in Kenya
- Implementation of Legislation
- Ensure adherence to and execution of both National and County laws.
- Revenue Generation
- Raise funds for the county through effective tax collection, negotiating local and international aid, loans, and fostering trade.
- Responsible Use of Public Funds
- Oversee the efficient allocation and use of public funds within the county.
- Poverty Reduction Initiatives
- Equitably deliver services like healthcare, education, and housing.
- Ensure food security, create employment, and promote sustainable economic practices.
- Representation at the National Level
- Attend meetings, like The Summit with the President, to represent county interests.
- Execution of National Government Functions
- Carry out state functions assigned by the President and negotiate the transfer of functions from the national to the county level where necessary.
- County Security
- Ensure safety and security within the county.
- Compliance with Human Rights
- Implement and report on adherence to human rights and democratic principles.
- Regular Reporting
- Provide the County Assembly with reports on county matters, including an annual report on County plan implementations.
- Appointment of County Executive Committee Members
- Select qualified and competent executive committee members, following approval from the County Assembly.
- Oversight on County Executive Committee Composition
- Ensure compliance with rules limiting the County Executive members to one-third of the County Assembly’s total.
- Supervision of County Public Service
- Oversee the county’s public service for efficient delivery.
- Deputy Governor Appointment
- Select a competent Deputy Governor.
- Legislation Approval and Gazette Notice
- Approve and sign bills into law, and publish County Gazette notices for policy decisions.
- Promotion of County’s Economic Viability
- Ensure the county’s economic growth and competitiveness locally and internationally.
County Governor Salary and Allowances in Kenya
The County Governor’s monthly salary structure includes:
| Component | Amount (Ksh) |
|---|---|
| Basic Salary | 554,400 |
| House Allowance | 200,000 |
| Market Adjustment | 169,600 |
| Total Monthly Salary | 924,000 |
- Annual Salary: Ksh 11,088,000
- Five-Year Total: Ksh 55,440,000
For all 47 governors, this equates to nearly Ksh 2.7 billion in salaries every five years, funded by taxpayers.
