Murang’a County has emerged as one of Kenya’s top-performing devolved units for the 2024–2025 period, consistently ranked highly by institutions such as the Vision 2030 Delivery Secretariat, Infotrak, and the Controller of Budget.
Its rise is not accidental—it is the result of deliberate policy choices, strong leadership, and a focus on innovation, service delivery, and citizen impact.
Digital Transformation Driving Efficiency
Murang’a leads the country in automation and e-government, scoring an impressive 98.3% in digital service delivery. Through systems like the Afia.k platform, the county has digitized healthcare, enabling paperless hospital operations and efficient patient record management.
Residents can now access essential services such as bursary applications, permits, and payments online—reducing bureaucracy and corruption risks. Automation has also boosted revenue collection, with own-source revenue rising from under KSh500 million to over KSh1.3 billion without increasing taxes.
Governor Irungu Kang’ata has emphasized the county’s forward-looking vision, noting: “Murang’a is leading Kenya’s future… we are focusing on turning Murang’a into a model of African green industrialization.”
Revolutionizing Healthcare Through Telemedicine
Murang’a is pioneering telemedicine in Kenya, connecting patients in rural areas to specialists through digital platforms. This innovation has significantly improved access to healthcare, especially for elderly and chronically ill patients.
Approximately 20,000 residents are already benefiting from the system, which reduces travel costs and waiting times. Expanded internet connectivity across rural health facilities has made this possible, positioning Murang’a as a leader in smart healthcare delivery.
Agriculture and Value Addition Power Growth
Agriculture remains the backbone of Murang’a’s economy, but the county has moved beyond traditional farming. Through programs like the “Inua Mkulima” initiative, subsidies are sent directly to farmers via mobile money, ensuring transparency and efficiency.
The county is also investing heavily in value addition—processing and packaging products like avocado, coffee, and dairy to increase earnings and create jobs. This shift from raw production to finished goods is key to long-term economic transformation.
James Mwangi highlighted the county’s strategic advantage, stating: “With infrastructure already in place and the land next to Thika Superhighway, whatever we manufacture here reaches Nairobi’s market of five million people within 30 minutes… Let us process, package and export from here.”
High Development Spending and Budget Efficiency
Murang’a is among the top counties in development expenditure, recording a 71% absorption rate in the 2024/2025 financial year. According to the Controller of Budget, this means a significant portion of funds is directed toward impactful development projects rather than recurrent expenses.
This efficient use of public resources has translated into visible improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, and economic programs across the county.
Strong Citizen Satisfaction and Trust
Perhaps the most telling indicator of Murang’a’s success is public perception. A February 2025 Infotrak survey ranked the county as the best-performing in Kenya, with 87% of residents reporting improved living conditions.
This high satisfaction reflects a government that delivers tangible results and maintains strong engagement with its citizens.
A Model for Devolution in Kenya
Murang’a County’s consistent performance has earned national recognition, particularly from the Vision 2030 Delivery Secretariat, for its role in job creation, digital transformation, and service delivery.
By combining technology, strategic investment, and people-centered policies, the county has positioned itself as a benchmark for development under Kenya’s devolved system.
As other counties look to replicate success, Murang’a stands out as proof that innovation, accountability, and visionary leadership can transform local economies and improve lives at scale.
