Ruto meets governors to review progress of development projects

President William Ruto on Wednesday hosted governors to consult and review progress on the implementation of key intergovernmental development projects. 

Among other topics, the meeting on Wednesday evening focused on the ambitious digitisation programme of the public health facilities.

This is with the aim of weeding out fake hospitals that have for long unfairly benefited from public funds. 

“To deepen our agricultural reforms, we will harmonise and consolidate operations of agencies and departments under the Ministry of Agriculture,” Ruto said.

He added that the governments will also enhance animal traceability by registering livestock farmers and introducing the e-voucher system for animal vaccination.

Ruto said this will be built upon the successful system developed for the distribution of subsidised fertiliser. 

Further, the government will leverage a robust cooperative ecosystem to unlock the full potential in the agriculture sector.

This is by increasing productivity, improving prices, and putting more money in farmers' pockets. 

“We will continue consulting frequently as two levels of government to foster a harmonious working relationship,” the president added.

The meeting comes two weeks after governors demanded a meeting with the President. 

The Council of Governors (COG) led chair Ahmed Abdulahi on May 19 demanded to meet Ruto to address emerging issues between the two levels of government.

Then, they cited various issues in health, budget and overlapping powers as key reasons behind the request. 

The governors also hoped to address the persistent county funding challenges, as they said despite their request of Sh536 billion for the 2025/2026 financial year, only Sh405 billion had been allocated. 

In addition, payments totalling Sh78.94 billion covering March to May are still delayed.

“This is a direct violation of the principle that resources must follow functions, and undermines the constitutional right of county governments to receive adequate resources. The COG therefore, urges an urgent summit meeting with the President,” Abdulahi said.