By K, KNA
Residents of Igwamiti Ward in Laikipia West Constituency, Laikipia County, have called on the county government to prioritise the purchase of medical drugs and equipment over the construction of new health facilities.
During a public participation forum at Nyahururu Stadium on the County Fiscal Strategic Paper (CFSP) and Debt Management Strategy for the year, residents highlighted persistent shortages of essential drugs in local health facilities as a major concern.
In the CFSP 2026, the Department of Health and Sanitation proposed priorities for the 2026–2027 fiscal year, including procurement of medical supplies, enhancement of health infrastructure, sanitation services, and preventive health measures.
Residents also urged the county to install streetlights in Nyahururu Town to curb rising insecurity. “We urge the county government to prioritise street lights to cushion us from frequent mugging in the streets of Nyahururu,” said Eliud Gitonga, recommending solar streetlights over electric alternatives due to lower installation and operational costs.
His counterpart, John Mungai, called for better road maintenance and repair of worn-out manholes in Nyahururu Town.
The community also requested improved solid waste management through the procurement of additional garbage trucks and engagement of local youth in waste collection. They emphasized that their views should be ring-fenced and implemented rather than discarded by the county assembly.
Community Development Assistant (CDA) Ms. Madrine Njue commended the residents for providing their input. She noted that the CFSP 2026 aligns with Articles 201 and 230 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and public participation. She added that County Treasuries, under the Public Finance Management Act 2012, are mandated to prepare, submit, publicize, and align the CFSP with the Budget Policy Statement while incorporating public views.
For the 2026/2027 fiscal year, Laikipia County plans to set aside Sh7.628 billion, with Sh3.49 billion allocated to salaries and allowances, Sh1.7 billion for operations and maintenance, and Sh2.4 billion for development.
The health department has been allocated the lion’s share, with Sh3.031 billion, including Sh1.8 billion for staff salaries and allowances, Sh255 million for operations and maintenance, and Sh905 million for development initiatives.
The CFSP serves as an annual policy document prepared by every county government to guide the formulation of the county budget for the following financial year.
