Governor Barasa Highlights County Progress

H.E. Dr. FCPA Fernandes Barasa, OGW, delivered the State of the County Address during the opening of the 5th Session of the Kakamega County Assembly. He highlighted achievements over the past three years under his Six-Point Agenda and the difficult decisions taken to keep development moving while safeguarding public resources. He stressed that although the Executive and Assembly are independent, they must work together to deliver services to the people of Kakamega.

 

The Governor noted continued investment in key projects, including Bukhungu Stadium and the Kakamega Level VI Hospital. He announced that construction of a new County Headquarters will be delayed to allow immediate work on an ultra-modern County Assembly, with funds already allocated.

 

Under Health, Water and Sanitation, the County has expanded access to quality healthcare and clean water. The Level VI Hospital is nearing completion with national government support. Kakamega County General Hospital now offers ICU, neurosurgery, and advanced diagnostics. The County recruited more health workers, promoted staff, digitised facilities, and expanded Barasa Care to all wards. Clean water access has risen from 65% to 74% through protection of 239 springs and 21,000 new connections.

 

In Wealth Creation, Infrastructure and Food Security, the County maintained over 1,100 kilometres of roads, upgraded key roads to bitumen, and built markets, stockyards, bridges, and bodaboda sheds. The Kazi Mashinani programme engaged 3,000 youth and women, while grants supported 900 groups. Farmers received subsidised fertiliser and seeds, livestock vaccination, improved breeds, artificial insemination support, aquaculture inputs, and cooperative training to boost production and incomes.

 

Under Education, Social Development and Good Governance, the County invested in ECDE furniture, bursaries, and vocational training. Sports and talent development were promoted. Transparency was strengthened through the Open Government Partnership, an electronic project management system, and a toll-free call centre.

 

Governor Barasa concluded that the County’s legacy will be defined by unity, fiscal discipline, and equitable development delivering lasting progress for all residents.