Vihiga: Governor Dr. Wilber Khasilwa Ottichilo has officially assented to the Vihiga County Appropriation Bill, 2025, marking a key milestone in the county’s budget cycle for the 2025/2026 Financial Year. In his address, Governor Ottichilo commended all stakeholders for their dedication and coordination throughout the budget-making process, which he noted has ensured timely approval of the appropriation bill.

According to Kenya News Agency, the Governor expressed gratitude for the continued cooperation between departments, the assembly, and the public. He emphasized that this consistent efficiency is what enables the county to meet its development goals. The Governor also directed all departments to prioritize completion of ongoing and stalled projects before initiating new ones, stressing the need for prudent utilization of resources.

The total budget for the 2025/2026 Financial Year stands at Sh6,921,626,241, reflecting a 6.55% increase from the previous year. The budget highlights include Development Expenditure of Sh2,202,185,341, accounting for 31.9%, and Recurrent Expenditure of Sh4,710,440,900, making up 68.1%. Additionally, there is a Pending Bills Allocation of Sh408 million.

The approved budget is designed to drive key investments in health, infrastructure, agriculture, education, and youth empowerment, while ensuring financial discipline and continuity in service delivery. The assent ceremony, held at the county headquarters, was attended by Deputy Governor H.E. Wilberforce Kitiezo, County Assembly Speaker Hon. Christopher Omulele, CBS, along with representatives from both the Executive and Legislative arms of the county government.