Turkana County, Kenya's second-largest County by land area, has emerged as a beacon of fiscal innovation in recent years. Once heavily reliant on the equitable revenue share, Turkana has successfully charted a course towards financial self-reliance, setting a compelling example for Counties across Kenya.
The overreliance on national transfers led to numerous challenges, including delayed cash flow, low budget absorption rates, and stalled development projects. The County also grappled with high personnel expenditures and substantial pending bills, further straining its financial health.
Recognizing the urgent need for change, Turkana County leadership implemented a comprehensive strategy to enhance revenue collection efficiency and effectiveness. The basis of this strategy was an extensive awareness campaign aimed at educating residents on the importance of tax compliance and its direct benefits to their communities. This initiative fostered a culture of civic responsibility and transparency, laying the groundwork for increased voluntary compliance.
Simultaneously, the County invested in an advanced revenue automation system, streamlining collection processes and significantly reducing leakages. This technological upgrade improved the accuracy of revenue reporting, providing a clearer picture of the County's financial status. The implementation of robust revenue forecasting models enabled better resource planning and allocation, while strengthened governance structures ensured accountability in revenue management.
Infrastructure development played a crucial role in this transformation. The County focused on enhancing revenue-generating facilities, such as modernizing market infrastructure and improving property registration systems. These improvements created a more conducive environment for business and subsequently boosted revenue generation.
For the FY 2023/2024, Turkana County raised Ksh 530.65 million as OSR. Notably, it was among the 10 Counties that surpassed their annual targets, achieving an impressive 241.2% of their OSR target. The County has witnessed a significant increase in its OSR, markedly reducing its dependency on national transfers. This newfound financial strength has enabled the County to fund critical projects under the Governor's Nine Point Agenda, addressing key areas such as water access, food security, health services, education, and natural resource management.