Kericho County Commissioner (CC), Jeremiah Gicheru, has urged public servants to cooperate with the relevant state agencies towards full implementation of the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
Gicheru told the officers to remain focused on the targeted transformation, emphasising that partnership, coordination and accountability were essential for achieving the envisaged inclusive economic growth.
The CC made the remarks during the opening of a two-day BETA sensitisation forum organised by the Executive Office of the President, held at Sahara Gardens in Kericho.
The forum brought together members of the National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs) and other state departments to discuss practical steps for implementing the agenda.
“Goal 17 of the Sustainable Development Goals highlights the importance of partnerships. That’s why all government departments are gathered here. Cooperation is key to achieving our development targets,” said Gicheru.
He noted that Kenya has implemented several development frameworks over the years, including the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The CC emphasised that BETA marks a shift from traditional top-down approaches to a people-centred development strategy.
“The Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda addresses challenges such as rising costs of living, unemployment and inequality. It focuses on promoting growth and improving livelihoods at the grassroots level,” he explained.
Gicheru outlined the key pillars of BETA including Agriculture, Health, Housing, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and the Digital Economy.
He said all these programmes aim to create jobs, increase household incomes and reduce reliance on predatory lending.
The CC called on government officers to take ownership of BETA initiatives, stressing that implementing the agenda was a core duty and not optional.
“We must safeguard BETA’s objectives through coordinated efforts, avoid duplication and address any gaps in implementation. Collaboration between national and county governments is critical, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure and energy,” said Gicheru.
He also emphasised the importance of oversight and regular monitoring to ensure that projects are delivered on time, within scope and to the required standards. “Identifying and addressing challenges early is essential for successful implementation,” he added.
Regarding public participation, the CC stressed that raising awareness and engaging communities was crucial for the sustainability of BETA. Officers were urged to ensure that beneficiaries are informed and involved in all initiatives.
Gicheru also underscored the importance of strong leadership, commitment and discipline among government officials.
He affirmed that successful implementation of BETA would increase household incomes, strengthen markets, improve public services and deliver lasting benefits to communities across Kenya.
By Gilbert Mutai and Hillary Kemei
