County Governors in Kenya hold influential positions as the chief executives of their respective counties. Their responsibilities include overseeing county development, managing resources, and implementing policies. Given their critical role, many Kenyans are curious about how much these leaders earn.
In this article, we break down the salaries and allowances of County Governors as per the latest guidelines from the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC).
Current Salary Structure for County Governors
As of 2025, the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) sets the monthly earnings for County Governors. The basic salary is just one part of their total compensation, as they also receive multiple allowances.
Basic Salary
- Monthly Basic Salary: Ksh. 924,000
This figure is standardized across all 47 counties, meaning every governor earns the same base pay.
Allowances and Benefits
In addition to their salary, governors enjoy several allowances, including:
- Entertainment Allowance: Up to Ksh. 200,000 per month
- House Allowance: Ksh. 150,000 per month
- Car Allowance: Ksh. 340,000 per month (or an official vehicle)
- Security: Provided by the state
- Medical Cover: Comprehensive health insurance
- Travel Allowance: For domestic and international trips
- Pension & Gratuity: As per public service regulations
Total Estimated Monthly Earnings
When combining the basic salary and major allowances, a County Governor’s total monthly compensation can exceed Ksh. 1.6 million.
How Do County Governors’ Salaries Compare?
- President of Kenya: Earns about Ksh. 1.4 million (basic salary)
- Deputy President: Approximately Ksh. 1.2 million
- Cabinet Secretaries: Around Ksh. 924,000 (same as governors)
Interestingly, County Governors earn more than some top national government officials, reflecting the decentralization of power under Kenya’s devolved system.
Controversies Over Governors’ Salaries
The high pay for County Governors has sparked debates, especially when some counties struggle with:
- Delayed salaries for health workers and teachers
- Poor service delivery despite huge budgets
- Corruption scandals involving misused funds
Critics argue that reducing governors’ pay could free up funds for development, while supporters claim the compensation matches their heavy responsibilities.
Conclusion
County Governors in Kenya earn a substantial monthly salary, with total compensation exceeding Ksh. 1.6 million when allowances are included. While their pay is justified by their demanding roles, it remains a topic of public debate, especially regarding accountability and service delivery.
What are your thoughts on County Governors’ salaries? Should they be reduced, or is the pay fair for their responsibilities? Share your views in the comments!
FAQs
1. Who determines County Governors’ salaries?
The Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) sets and reviews their pay.
2. Do all governors earn the same amount?
Yes, the basic salary is uniform, but some allowances may vary based on county budgets.
3. Can governors earn additional income?
No, they are barred from private business engagements while in office.
4. How often are these salaries reviewed?
The SRC reviews public sector pay periodically, usually every few years.
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