Health takes lion share of Meru county budget

Meru County has earmarked the largest share of its 2025-2026 budget to health services, underscoring a renewed focus on improving healthcare delivery across the region. Governor Isaac Mutuma assented to the County Appropriation Bill, allocating Sh1.9 billion to health, Sh1.6 billion to roads, transport, and energy, and Sh1.1 billion to water, irrigation, environment, and natural resources. Deputy Governor Linda Kiome-Gitonga noted that the allocations aim to ensure residents access essential services efficiently while reinforcing the county’s broader development agenda.
The budget marks a shift from previous years, which were characterized by strained relations between the executive and the County Assembly under former leadership. Governor Mutuma, who assumed office five months ago following the ouster of Kawira Mwangaza, highlighted the improved collaboration with MCAs, describing it as a turning point that will allow for more coordinated planning and execution of development projects. Key initiatives include drilling boreholes, expanding water access, improving road networks, enhancing energy supply, supporting ECDE programs, and strengthening healthcare facilities across Meru.
Residents and local leaders have welcomed the budget, expressing optimism that focused resource allocation will translate into tangible improvements. Governor Mutuma urged the public to support the county’s transformative agenda, emphasizing that unity between leaders and communities is critical to accelerating development. As Meru embarks on this ambitious phase, close monitoring of project implementation will be vital to ensure the county achieves its objectives and recovers lost development time.