Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi has dismissed as a misplaced priority the ongoing efforts to develop an anthem and band by the county government.
Osotsi said the county should instead focus on improving health, water and other devolved functions to better the lives of the people.
“It is in law but not a priority – the timing is wrong. Let the county focus on priorities. There are cheaper ways of composing the county anthem,” he said.
The county is conducting public participation on the proposed development of its anthem and band. The process will cost taxpayers Sh2.8 million.
The senator said the county has musical talent and only needs to initiate a competition – such as amongst churches – on the composition of an anthem, from which the best will be rewarded, instead of spending millions.
Residents feel that the government is insensitive by spending money on developing a county anthem when Vocational Training Centres have been closed due to under-capitation.
Osotsi said water, health and education sectors, which are faced with a myriad of challenges, should be the priorities .
Governor Wilbur Ottichilo’s press services director, Frank Matika, said the development of the anthem aligns with the Vihiga County and Other Symbols Act 2014.
“It was based on that provision that our commitment to fostering identity and championing the rich diversity of our county, saw that our 2023-2027 County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP), culture and heritage and enhancing access, equity, quality and relevant education and training envision development of the Vihiga County Anthem,” Matika said in a statement.
The CIDP, which calls for the establishment of the anthem and the band, was taken through public participation twice, by the executive and the county assembly.
He said the process factored in feedback and input from the people of Vihiga, as a pillar of social cohesion, identity and sustainable progress.
