KAKAMEGA COUNTY ASSEMBLY SENSITIZED ON THE PROPOSED COUNTY VALUATION ROLL

The County Government of Kakamega will soon make use valuation roll to enhance revenue collection. This was revealed by the CECM for Lands, Housing, Urban Development and Physical Planning Dr Mariam Barasa at a meeting convened to sensitize Members of County Assembly from the Lands Committee on the Valuation Roll and the Valuation for Rating Bill where she said Kakamega County will levy rates to ratable properties across the County with an aim of enhancing Own Source Revenue (OSR).

The CECM explained that through the roll, the County will grow tax base and move towards the potential Shs 5 Billion OSR collection projection up from the current target of Ksh 2 Billion, this Financial Year. This, she explained, will reduce over-reliance on the inconsistent funding from the National Treasury.

Some of the resolutions made during the meeting were; constitution of a technical committee to scrutinize the Draft document before it is submitted for debate at the County Assembly, fast tracking the preparation and implementation of GIS based physical and Land Use Plans as well as fastracking implementation of the County Spatial Plan through the Digital Land Governance program.

County Secretary and Head of Public Service Dr. Bonface Okoth appreciated participation from the County Assembly, National Government, Council of Governors and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and directed that the process be hastened to realize the County’s OSR target. He called for participation and involvement of key stakeholders to ensure a comprehensive and thorough final document.

Chairperson of the County Assembly Land’s Committee Hon. Timothy Wanzetse on his part assured of the County Assembly’s support to ensure the Governor’s agenda is realized.

In addition to improving food and nutrition, FAO is also committed to enhancing livelihoods and sustainable development in Kenya through equitable and secure access and management of land.

Present were Leader of Minority Hon. David Ndakwa, Chief Officers; CPA David Kulova (Lands Administration, Survey and Physical Planning) and Faith Gitira (Housing and Urban Development), Kakamega and Mumias Municipal Managers CS Dan Musita and CS Christopher Ombunya respectively, Directors , Officers from the State Department for Lands led by Mr Herbert Were, Ms Zembi Odera from FAO and a representative from the Council of Governors.