The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata has called for county governments to be granted control over the Road Maintenance Levy, arguing that local administrations are best positioned to address the infrastructural needs within their jurisdictions.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Channel
Speaking during the commissioning of newly paved cabro roads at Greystone shopping centre in Gatanga Sub County as part of the Smart City Programme, Kang’ata highlighted that most roads needing repair are located within villages and towns—areas governed by counties.
“Despite the fact that rural and urban roads fall under county governments, the entire Road Maintenance Levy is controlled by the national government,” he said. “We are advocating for a more equitable share of this revenue so we can enhance road conditions and improve transport for our people.”
The Road Maintenance Levy, funded by a Sh25 charge per litre of fuel and raising approximately Sh100 billion annually, has been a source of contention between county and national governments over its allocation.
Governor Kang’ata stressed that even a fraction of the levy directed to counties would have a significant impact, enabling the improvement of vital roads serving schools, healthcare facilities, and markets.
“These are roads that schoolchildren, pregnant women, farmers, and traders rely on every day. Supporting county efforts with this funding would directly benefit the everyday lives of Kenyans, especially in rural communities,” he added.
Murang’a County has already launched efforts to upgrade roads and streets in local towns to support businesses and create a more favorable operating environment through the Smart City Programme, which also includes enhancements in drainage and street lighting.
Kakuzi-Mitubiri Ward MCA Steven Muigai supported the governor’s appeal, saying the new cabro roads have greatly improved residents’ daily lives.
“For years, poor roads disrupted trade, especially during the rainy seasons,” Muigai noted. “These road upgrades are not just cosmetic—they’re transforming mobility, increasing trade, and boosting land values. We appreciate the county’s commitment to development in grassroots areas like ours.”
Both leaders called for stronger cooperation between the national and county governments to ensure that progress and development reach all parts of the country.
