Ruiru: Ruiru Municipality officials and stakeholders in Kiambu County, gathered for a celebratory luncheon to mark the fulfillment of a promise made by the Kiambu County Governor, Kimani Wamatangi, following their outstanding performance in revenue collection for the Financial Year 2024/2025. The event was graced by the Chief Guest, Mr. Mburu Kangethe, Chair of Kiambu Revenue Board, who delivered Governor Wamatangi's congratulatory message.
According to Kenya News Agency, he personally commended the staff for their commitment and diligence, noting that their exceptional performance plays a vital role in improving service delivery and development across the Municipality. The industrial hub Municipality, located approximately 20 kilometers northeast of Nairobi, achieved a remarkable 74 percent improvement in revenue collection, raising Sh 602 million and recording the highest improvement rate, among Kiambu County's municipalities.
The performance exceeded expectations and demonstrated the Municipality's commitment to the Governor's vision of enhancing its Own Source Revenue collection across the County. The celebration comes as part of Governor Wamatangi's broader initiative to boost the county's annual revenue collection, with targets set at Sh7 billion within two years from the possible Sh11.3 billion potential. The Governor had promised to recognize and reward municipalities that demonstrated exemplary performance in revenue collection.
Sharon Wanjira, Ruiru Business Association Chairperson remarked, 'This celebration is well deserved. The Municipality has worked tirelessly to streamline revenue collection processes and make it easier for businesses to comply. The digitization of services and improved customer care at the municipal offices has made a significant difference. We appreciate that our efforts are being recognized, and this motivates us to continue supporting County development, through timely payment of our dues.'
James Kamau, another business Chairperson added, 'Achieving a 74 percent improvement wasn't easy, but our team was determined to deliver. We introduced innovative collection methods, improved taxpayer education, and enhanced our enforcement mechanisms, while maintaining fairness and transparency. The support from local businesses and residents has been overwhelming. This luncheon represents more than just a celebration; it's recognition of collective effort toward County development.'
The Municipality, which serves a population of 490,120, according to the 2019 Census, hosts major industrial facilities, including Devki Steel Mills, Super Foam Limited, and Tatu Industrial City Park, contributing significantly to its revenue base. Governor Wamatangi announced that Ruiru's success would serve as a model for other municipalities, with plans to replicate their strategies across Thika, Juja, and other municipal areas in Kiambu County.