Governor Nyaribo warns against Keroka revenue theft

Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo has urged the leadership of the newly established Keroka municipality to address gaps that have led to massive revenue losses.

He expressed concern that funds collected within the municipality are not reaching the county’s treasury, instead being siphoned off by individuals for personal gain.

Governor Nyaribo also encouraged the municipality’s board to focus on boosting local revenue generation to ensure the town becomes self-reliant and financially sustainable.

“I urge the board to go above and beyond in revitalizing the municipality’s image, which currently leaves much to be desired,” he added.

Speaking from his boardroom during the swearing-in of the newly formed Keroka municipality board, Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo urged the members to prioritize revenue generation and accountability.

The ceremony, conducted by County Attorney Erastus Orina, saw the official induction of chairman Michieka Barnabas Makario, vice chair Angela Cherono Mulwet, and members John Mathias Mogere, Janet Kerubo Nyamongo, Shem Nyakundi, Naom Nyaboke Mosomi, and Dominic Aroko Babu.

Governor Nyaribo emphasized the need for the municipality to generate sufficient income from its own sources to ensure self-sustainability.

He stressed the importance of plugging revenue leakages, urging the board to take firm action against any officers found misappropriating public funds.

“You must ensure every coin collected is accounted for. Any officer found embezzling revenue from traders should be arrested and prosecuted,” he said.

He also called for responsible use of donor contributions and encouraged the board to oversee effective service delivery, noting that their role was largely voluntary and driven by public service.

Governor Nyaribo challenged the board to identify new revenue streams that can be incorporated into the County Finance Bills to boost Nyamira’s financial base.

He warned that insufficient revenue collection would hinder the government’s ability to provide essential services.

“No sector should be exempt from taxation,” he added, questioning how boda boda operators expect to benefit from county services without contributing their fair share in taxes.

Nyamira County recently closed two key livestock markets following confirmed cases of foot and mouth disease.

County Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries CEC Alice Manoti said the decision came after 15 cases were reported among cattle.

The closure affects Metamaywa market in Borabu Sub-County and Nyansira market in Keroka, located in Masaba North Sub-County.