Counties have recorded notable progress in advancing devolution despite persistent financial hurdles, Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has said.

Addressing journalists during the Devolution Conference in Homa Bay County, Waiguru stressed that devolving resources remains key to Kenya’s future, noting that rural regions once sidelined in national development have undergone significant change since county governments were established.

She appealed to citizens to maintain their backing for county administrations in pursuit of “equity, inclusion and social justice.”

While acknowledging the gains, Waiguru pointed out that inadequate funding and delays in releasing county allocations continue to hamper operations.

She also pressed for a united fight against corruption, describing it as a deep-seated problem across all sectors of society.

“This is not a problem you can just point in one direction. It is a societal challenge that must be addressed as a whole,” she said, calling on Kenyans to work together in rooting out the vice.

The governor highlighted Kirinyaga’s achievements since the advent of devolution, citing progress in agriculture, healthcare, and community empowerment.

She said the county holds its position as Kenya’s top rice producer and has expanded dairy production, with farmer cooperatives now processing, packaging, and improving product branding to increase incomes.

“In agriculture, we have increased production through inputs and technical support, while enhancing value addition for products like rice and milk. These gains are on display at our pavilion for all to see,” she said.

On healthcare, Waiguru noted that Kirinyaga had strengthened its services to foster a healthy population capable of driving socio-economic growth.

She further urged the complete handover of all devolved functions, saying counties had shown the ability to manage them effectively.

“Counties have shown they can perform these functions, and we have been engaging in peer learning to share best practices at the grassroots.

However, some functions remain partially transferred due to factors such as unclear frameworks, or reluctance by national institutions,” she said.

The Kirinyaga pavilion at the conference, which drew praise from President William Ruto, showcased the county’s development model, one built on agricultural strength, improved service delivery, and a deliberate effort to ensure no resident is left behind.