Deputy Governor Salary and Benefits In Kenya

In Kenya, the remuneration and benefits of Deputy County Governors are determined by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), as mandated by Article 230(4)(a) of the Constitution.

As of the financial years 2023/2024 and 2024/2025, a Deputy County Governor receives a gross monthly salary of KES 652,742, which comprises:

• Basic Salary: KES 391,645
• House Allowance: KES 100,000
• Salary Market Adjustment: KES 161,097

The Salary Market Adjustment is a modification that aligns the salary with market averages for comparable positions.

In addition to the monthly salary, Deputy County Governors are entitled to various benefits, including:

• Official Car: An official vehicle with an engine capacity not exceeding 3000 cc.
• Medical Cover: Annual medical coverage for the Deputy Governor, one spouse, and up to four dependent children below 25 years, encompassing:
  • Inpatient: KES 10 million
  • Outpatient: KES 300,000
  • Maternity: KES 150,000
  • Dental: KES 75,000
  • Optical: KES 75,000
• Retirement Benefits: Options include a service gratuity equal to 31% of the annual pensionable income for the period of service or participation in a pension scheme with employer contributions as determined by the SRC.
• Group Life and Personal Accident Insurance: Coverage equivalent to three times the annual pensionable emoluments.
• Car Loan and Mortgage: Eligibility for a car loan up to KES 6 million and a mortgage up to KES 30 million, both at an interest rate of 3% per annum.
• Daily Subsistence Allowance: For local and foreign travel, as per SRC rates.
• Airtime: Provision of up to KES 15,000.
• Official Residence: Provision of an official dwelling with necessary amenities and attendants.
• Security: As advised by the Inspector-General of Police.
• Annual Leave Allowance: KES 50,000 per annum.

These provisions are designed to ensure that Deputy County Governors are adequately compensated and facilitated to perform their duties effectively.

It’s important to note that any remuneration and benefits not specified are not payable unless subsequently set by the SRC.

Despite the structured compensation package, there have been discussions regarding the clarity of the roles of Deputy Governors. Some have expressed concerns about being underutilized, leading to calls for constitutional reforms to clearly define their responsibilities.

This would ensure that taxpayers receive value for money and that Deputy Governors can contribute effectively to county governance.

In summary, while Deputy County Governors in Kenya receive a comprehensive remuneration package, ongoing discussions highlight the need for clearer role definitions to enhance their contribution to county administrations.