By Andrew Mbuva
Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti has intensified pressure on both the National Government and local lawmakers, calling for urgent disbursement of stalled healthcare funds while cautioning Members of the County Assembly against derailing development priorities through budget disputes.
Speaking during the second day of her development tour in Machakos Town Constituency, the Governor urged the national administration to immediately release outstanding payments owed to counties under the Social Health Authority (SHA) program, noting that delayed funding was straining service delivery across devolved health facilities.
She at the same time encouraged residents to enroll in the Social Health Authority scheme, emphasizing that universal registration must be matched with timely financial support from the national level to sustain hospital operations and ensure consistent access to care.
“Register with SHA. But as I ensure our people register, we are demanding that the National Government remits our money on time. We need the funds to stock hospitals and serve our people better,” she said.
The Council of Governors, through the Council of Governors, has previously raised concern that the national government owes counties billions of shillings in unremitted SHA-related funds, warning that the shortfall risks disrupting essential health services if not addressed urgently.
On the political front, the Governor issued a firm warning to MCAs, indicating she would not allow prolonged standoffs over development budgets to slow down service delivery. She suggested that executive action could be used to prevent delays in implementing key county programs should legislative impasses persist.
She maintained that public interest would take precedence over political disagreements, insisting that development projects must continue without interruption.
“Where necessary, I will make decisive executive decisions to protect public funds, accelerate project implementation, and ensure that the development agenda of Machakos County remains on course,” she stated, adding that her administration remains focused on improving livelihoods across the county.
The tour is part of an ongoing assessment of county projects, with attention on healthcare, water, sanitation, and road infrastructure within Machakos County.
Despite financial constraints attributed to delayed national transfers, the Governor reaffirmed her commitment to accountability and efficient use of public resources, noting that all ongoing projects must deliver value for money.
Meanwhile, sections of residents expressed support for her administration, citing improved service delivery and expanded development initiatives across various sectors.
