Counties to receive assets from defunct local authorities

Counties are set to receive ownership of multi-billion shilling assets from defunct local authorities amidst fears of grabbing and embezzlement during the transition period.

The transfer of ownership of multi-billion shilling assets from defunct local authorities to counties represents a significant milestone in devolution, aimed at empowering counties to undertake development projects.

However, concerns regarding potential grabbing and embezzlement during and after the transition period have been raised.

Teresia Mbaika, the Principal Secretary of the State Department of Devolution, underscored the importance of finalising the valuation and transfer of assets to secure ownership rights for the devolved units speaking in Mombasa while launching the exercises says concerted effort through a multi-agency Technical Task Team will ensure transparency and accountability throughout the process.

Movable assets

The valuation exercise, covering movable assets, land, and buildings, is being conducted in phases across 30 counties, aligning with the National Treasury Guidelines on Assets and Liabilities Management in the Public Finance Management Act.

The Intergovernmental Technical Relations Committee is actively working on modalities to effect the transfer to respective counties.

Oversight mechanisms

Mbaika emphasised the importance of diligent work in transparency, accountability, and effective oversight mechanisms to safeguard these assets for the benefit of the respective counties and their constituents noting that the delays to finalise the transfer process were occasioned due to lack of financial and human resources for the teams to complete on the transfer.

Francis Thoya the Mombasa deputy governor who was also present during the launch says has been long overdue since the inception of devolution 10 years down the liner.

While the transfer of assets holds the promise of enhancing development opportunities at the county level, it’s imperative to address concerns regarding potential grabbing and embezzlement during this transition period where individuals have taken advantage to grab some of the prime assets which he says their days are numbered and the county government will take action immediately they are handed over ownership rights.