Governors hiring spree bleed counties Sh46bn
Kenyan county governments have seen a significant increase in wage bills since 2022, with several counties reporting multi-billion shilling hikes. The Controller of Budget's report highlights the fiscal pressure this places on local administration budgets.
Why it matters
Rising public sector wage bills in Kenya raise concerns about fiscal sustainability and the efficient allocation of taxpayer funds at the county level.
Controller of Budget Margaret Nyakang'o /FILE
With barely a year left to the end of their term, governors are on the spot over a Sh45.85 billion rise in county wage bills since they were elected in August 2022
An analysis by the Star shows Nairobi, Bungoma, Mombasa and Homa Bay have recorded the highest increases in personnel expenditure since the current governors took office.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja’s administration leads the pack, with the county wage bill rising by Sh3.02 billion in four years, from Sh14.79 billion during the Nairobi Metropolitan Services-City Hall era to Sh17.81 billion by June 30, 2026.
Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka’s wage bill has increased by Sh2.32 billion, rising from Sh5.20 billion on June 30, 2022, to Sh7.53 billion by June 30, 2026.
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