Vihiga records 80pc implementation of development plan targets

The County Government of Vihiga has launched its Mid-Term Review Report for the Third Generation County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) 2023–2027, highlighting significant achievements across key sectors, including governance, healthcare, agriculture, water, infrastructure, and economic development.

Speaking during the launch in Mbale, Vihiga Governor Dr Wilber Ottichilo said the report was intended to update residents on the progress made over the past four years and provide a roadmap for the remaining period before the 2027 General Election.

“I have chosen to do this early enough before the politics of 2027 begin so that the people of Vihiga can understand what the government has achieved and what we are focusing on in the remaining period,” said the Governor.

The event was attended by officials from the Ministry of National Treasury and Economic Planning, led by Vision 2030 Director General James Maina; Council of Governors Director Kizito Wangalwa; county executives; development partners; and other stakeholders.

Governor Ottichilo said the CIDP was developed through an extensive public participation process and was guided by ten key priorities identified by residents.

He noted that despite delays in the disbursement of funds from the National Treasury, the county had achieved approximately 80 per cent implementation of its development targets through support from development partners, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders, whom he thanked for their contribution.

The Governor said the county had made considerable progress in strengthening governance systems through the enactment of key legislation and the establishment of institutions aimed at improving service delivery.

He added that the county had invested heavily in automation and digitisation of government services to enhance efficiency, accountability, and transparency.

On healthcare, Ottichilo lauded the implementation of the Social Health Authority (SHA), saying it was improving access to healthcare services and helping address the challenge of drug shortages in public health facilities.

In the agriculture sector, the Governor said the county had shifted its focus from subsistence farming to agribusiness, attracting over Sh1 billion through programmes such as the National Agricultural Rural Inclusive Growth Project (NARIGP) and Kenya Climate Smart Agriculture initiatives.

“As a county with limited land, we must focus on high-value crops and agribusiness to create wealth and jobs for our people,” he said.

On water and sanitation, Ottichilo said the county had successfully implemented more than 28 community-based water projects, increasing access to clean and affordable water for residents.

To stimulate economic growth and create employment opportunities, the Governor said the county was promoting cottage industries while pursuing large-scale investments, including plans to establish a granite processing factory following the conclusion of a court case that had delayed the project.

Addressing social concerns, Ottichilo expressed concern over the rising cases of gender-based violence and said the county had developed policies on gender and child protection as well as established a Gender-Based Violence Recovery Centre to support survivors.

He also identified alcohol and drug abuse as a growing challenge and revealed plans to establish a rehabilitation centre to assist affected individuals.

Vision 2030 Director General James Maina commended the county government for its development achievements and commitment to implementing the CIDP, noting that the progress reflected effective planning and prudent use of resources.

Council of Governors Director Kizito Wangalwa also praised the county’s development efforts, saying the achievements demonstrated the importance of strategic planning and collaboration among stakeholders in accelerating socio-economic development.

By Rose Wasike