Ruto to governors: Assist me mobilise resources in counties

President William Ruto has urged governors to take a more active role in raising resources for their counties instead of relying solely on the national government.

Speaking during the inaugural Katiba Day celebrations at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Wednesday, Ruto admitted that resource mobilization is a difficult task but one that must be shared between the two levels of government.

“The job of mobilising resources is a very difficult job. As I mobilize resources nationally, I also want you to work with me and assist in mobilizing resources at the county,” he said.

He reminded governors that under the law, counties are empowered to generate their own revenue, and should therefore explore ways of enhancing local collections.

“I know no county governor wants to raise resources locally, although the law now exists for own-source revenue. I ask you governors, please, even as you urge me to transfer more resources, look for opportunities to mobilize resources locally. Even if you are called names like Zakayo, it is still okay,” Ruto said, referring to the nickname he has earned for his tax policies.

The president noted that while he has faced criticism for pushing tax measures at the national level, similar efforts are needed at the county level to ensure service delivery.

Ruto’s remarks come just weeks after he addressed the Devolution Summit in Homa Bay on August 13, where he described devolution as transformative in promoting equity, correcting historical imbalances, and giving communities greater participation in governance.

He emphasized that collaborative frameworks such as the Council of Governors, the Summit, and the Intergovernmental Relations Technical Committee have been critical in resolving challenges and aligning policies with constitutional goals.

The president also reiterated his commitment to completing the transfer of all outstanding devolved functions under the Fourth Schedule, with adequate resources to support them.

“Every shilling spent on development must translate into livelihoods. A road is not just tarmac; it is the path to markets, hospitals, and classrooms. A farm input is not just a bag of fertilizer; it is food on the table and money in the mwananchi’s pocket,” Ruto said.