Boda boda riders,retail traders, and other residents of Trans Nzoia County could soon pay fees that reflect actual service costs as the county moves to overhaul its outdated tariff and pricing policy.
The County Government, through the World Bank-Funded Kenya Devolution Support Programme II (KDSP II), has begun reviewing charges for services ranging from market stalls and parking to health fees and business licenses.
County officials say current fees have not been updated to match inflation and service costs, creating a gap that affects service delivery.
“Our fees are outdated. Revenue falls short, dispensaries lack drugs, roads go unrepaired, and services stall,” said (KDSP II) KRA 1 Focal Person, CPA Kerato Wanyonyi during a validation meeting at the county headquarters.
Other policy proponents argue that fairer, transparent charges will close revenue leakages and fund projects in underserved areas. Under review are land rates, trade licenses, liquor licenses, motorbike licence fees, and solid waste charges.
KDSP II Gender focal person Robert Kibii said residents will only support revenue collection if they see value.
“When citizens get clean water, working streetlights, and better roads, they pay willingly. Revenue is not the goal – service is,” Kibii said.
The proposed policy, guided by principles of equity, affordability, and public participation, will be presented to the County Executive. If approved, it will be anchored in the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) and Annual Development Plan (ADP).
County officials stressed that periodic reviews will ensure fees keep pace with inflation and demand, preventing the policy from going stale again.
By Isaiah Nayika
