The Homa Bay County Government has responded to public criticism over reports that it spent KSh500,000 to construct a two-door pit latrine, insisting that the figure does not represent the actual amount used for construction.
In a statement, the county explained that the quoted amount includes statutory deductions, taxes and contractual obligations required under public finance regulations.
According to the county, approximately KSh80,000 is remitted to KRA as VAT, while other deductions cover contractual compliance, oversight costs and contractor obligations, leaving an estimated KSh255,000 available for the actual construction works.
The clarification follows remarks by Governor Gladys Wanga before the Senate, where she stated that the standard cost of constructing a two-door pit latrine in county markets is around half a million shillings.
County officials argue that the debate should consider the full procurement and taxation framework rather than focusing solely on the headline figure.
The administration further noted that investments in market sanitation have contributed to improved access to hygiene facilities in public markets, beaches and trading centres across the county.
However, the explanation has continued to spark debate online, with critics questioning some of the cost assumptions and calling for greater transparency and value-for-money in county projects.
The controversy highlights the growing public scrutiny of government spending and the increasing demand for detailed breakdowns of how taxpayer funds are utilized.
