Nairobi County posting Sh15 billion in own-source revenue is no small achievement. Put in perspective, it is nearly equivalent to its equitable share of national revenue, which stands at Sh22 billion.
The milestone is hardly surprising. Nairobi is Kenya’s commercial hub, the seat of government and the country’s largest economic engine. Some analysts argue that Sh15 billion still falls below the city’s true revenue potential, and they may be right. Even so, Governor Johnson Sakaja’s administration deserves credit for reversing years of underperformance.
Not long ago, Nairobi’s own-source revenue fluctuated between Sh3 billion and Sh7 billion a year. Huge leakages, weak enforcement and manual systems denied the county billions in collections.
Digitising revenue streams, mapping revenue sources and simplifying payment systems have significantly improved compliance and reduced opportunities for corruption.
Residents are also beginning to see the results. Roads are being recarpeted, public spaces upgraded and parts of the city given a facelift.
That matters because Nairobi is Kenya’s gateway to the world. The impression visitors form of the country often begins with the capital, making investment in urban infrastructure more than cosmetic; it is part of the nation’s image.
Yet higher revenues alone will not solve Nairobi’s problems. The county serves nearly seven million people during the day and about five million at night, placing immense pressure on roads, housing, sanitation and other public services. Every additional shilling must therefore be matched by disciplined planning, prudent spending and clear priorities.
The city still bears the scars of decades of poor governance, corruption and failed planning. Informal settlements, inadequate infrastructure and overstretched services are reminders of opportunities lost over many administrations.
Sustaining improved revenue collection is important, but using those resources effectively will be the real measure of success.
The challenge now is to ensure that every shilling collected delivers visible improvements in the lives of Nairobi residents and strengthens the city’s position as Kenya’s economic heartbeat.
The writer is a development communication professional
