The County Government of Kisumu has introduced a new revenue collection framework aimed at bolstering financial autonomy and improving urban governance. The initiative, led by Kisumu City Manager Abala M. Wanga, was unveiled at Mama Grace Onyango Social Hall on Wednesday, February 5 , signaling a major shift in how the city manages its financial resources.
During the launch, Wanga emphasized the framework’s role in supporting Kisumu’s rapid urbanization and economic expansion.
“This event marks the beginning of a new era—one of financial empowerment, urban resilience, and sustainable city governance,” he stated.
Focus on Key Revenue Streams
The revenue collection exercise will concentrate on four critical areas: single business permits, physical development plan approvals, land rates, and outdoor advertising. These sectors are expected to streamline revenue generation while enhancing efficiency for businesses and property owners.
Governor’s Vision for Financial Autonomy
The initiative aligns with a strategic decision by Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, who, through Gazette Notice No. 6298 of May 2024, delegated key urban functions to the Kisumu City Board. This historic move made Nyong’o the first Kenyan governor to grant such autonomy, allowing Kisumu to govern itself with increased efficiency.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to His Excellency for his unwavering support in securing the city’s autonomy,” said Wanga. “His dedication to urban governance has paved the way for a self-sufficient, investor-friendly, and globally competitive city.”
County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Finance, George Okong’o, affirmed that Kisumu City management will oversee revenue collection in the four identified sectors.
“This is not a new initiative but a solution to past challenges where fragmented revenue collection channels created confusion for businesses and property owners,” Okong’o explained.
He added that consolidating revenue collection under city management would establish a one-stop payment center, enhancing efficiency and transparency.
Emphasis on Transparency and Fairness
City Manager Wanga assured the public that the new framework would be implemented in a fair and systematic manner.
“We have instructed our staff to be disciplined. Revenue collection will not involve policing businesses but will instead be conducted in a civil and structured manner,” he said.
He noted that previous aggressive enforcement tactics, such as raiding construction sites and indiscriminately clamping vehicles, would be discontinued.
“The habit of raiding construction sites is over. We will serve notices and provide reasonable compliance timelines. The arbitrary clamping of vehicles will also end; we simply expect people to pay for parking services,” Wanga stated.
He underscored that the goal is to foster accountability and cooperation between city management and revenue payers.
“When staff resort to intimidation, it leads to revenue leakage and bribery. We are instituting a structured approach where clear notices and timelines will be provided,” he explained.
Investment in Infrastructure and Public Services
The new revenue collection initiative is projected to generate at least Ksh. 1 billion, which will be allocated to critical urban development projects, including infrastructure upgrades, public markets, waste management, and drainage networks.
“The greatness of a city is determined not just by its physical infrastructure but by the collective efforts of its people in shaping its destiny,” Wanga concluded.
The initiative marks a significant step in Kisumu’s journey toward becoming a smart, sustainable city with a robust financial foundation.
