Turkana CRA Revenue Allocation Formula Change Sought to Ease Refugee Burden

• Turkana Deputy Governor Dr. John Erus has called for the CRA's revenue allocation formula to be revised to account for refugee-hosting status.
• The proposed change aims to address funding shortfalls in counties hosting refugees, such as Turkana and Garissa.
• Lawyers advising counties should monitor developments on the potential revision to the CRA's revenue allocation formula.

Dr. Erus emphasized the need for a more equitable distribution of national revenue among counties, particularly those bearing the brunt of hosting refugees.

Turkana Deputy Governor Dr. John Erus has called for a change to the Commission on Revenue Allocation's (CRA) revenue allocation formula. The proposed modification would take into account the significant burden that hosting refugees places on county finances. This move comes as Turkana and Garissa, Kenya's two refugee-hosting counties, continue to struggle with funding shortfalls in delivering services devolved under the Constitution. Dr. Erus emphasized the need for a more equitable distribution of national revenue among counties, particularly those bearing the brunt of hosting refugees.

The CRA's current revenue allocation formula does not explicitly consider refugee-hosting status when determining how national revenue is shared among counties. This has led to concerns that counties like Turkana and Garissa are shouldering an unfair burden in providing services to refugees without adequate financial support. The proposed change aims to address this issue by incorporating a more nuanced approach to revenue allocation, one that acknowledges the unique challenges faced by refugee-hosting counties.

The potential revision to the CRA's revenue allocation formula has significant implications for lawyers advising counties. If implemented, it could impact their clients' funding and service delivery obligations, making it essential for legal professionals to stay informed about any changes to the formula. Furthermore, this development highlights the need for a more equitable distribution of national revenue among counties, particularly those hosting refugees. As Kenya continues to host large numbers of refugees, finding a sustainable solution to this issue is crucial for ensuring that all citizens have access to basic services and opportunities.

Lawyers advising counties should watch for potential changes to the revenue allocation formula, which could impact their clients' funding and service delivery obligations.

Source: Original reporting via KBC Digital