MPs seek clarity in road classification for funds allocation

A road under construction in Wajir County. A section of MPs have called for clarity in classification of roads for effective allocation of resources in the 2016/2017 budget. PHOTO | FILE | NATION MEDIA GROUP

What you need to know:

  • Governors have contested the recent reclassification that gave counties control over 129,456 kilometres of roads in Classes D, E, and lower while the national government controls Classes A, B and C that make up 39,995 kilometres.
  • There has been resistance from county bosses after some roads in Class D were upgraded to Class C and then handed over to the national government.

A section of MPs have called for clarity in classification of roads for effective allocation of resources in the 2016/2017 budget.

Speaking during the parliamentary Budget and Appropriations Committee's public hearing in Meru Town on Monday, the MPs noted that there were disputes on county and national government roads.

The meeting on the 2016/2017 budget was led by Sigor MP Philip Rotino, Rahim Dawood (North Imenti), Kathuri Murungi (South Imenti), Tiya Galgallo (Isiolo County) and Nasra Ibrahim (Marsabit County).

Mr Murungi said some roads were being left unattended due to lack of clarity on their classification.

“There is need for the government to clarify on roads classification to enable national government CDF and other regional bodies allocate funds towards roads development,” Mr Rotino said.
According to the budget estimates, ongoing construction and rehabilitation of roads has been allocated Sh117.6 billion.
Governors have contested the recent reclassification that gave counties control over 129,456 kilometres of roads in Classes D, E, and lower while the national government controls Classes A, B and C that make up 39,995 kilometres.
There has been resistance from county bosses after some roads in Class D were upgraded to Class C and then handed over to the national government.