National Treasury Invites Public Input for 2024/25 Budget Planning

MACHAKOS – In a notable departure from previous years, the National Treasury has launched a series of public forums to incorporate citizen input into the budget planning for the fiscal year 2024/25 and the mid-term budget review. These forums represent a substantial effort to democratize the budget-making process.

According to Kenya News Agency, an Assistant Director of Budget at the National Treasury, the initiative is mandated by constitutional provisions requiring public involvement in fiscal planning. Speaking in Machakos, Oulo informed that ten teams have been deployed nationwide to gather public opinion on which sectors should be prioritized for funding. The consultation process is set to conclude on November 6.

Machakos County Commissioner Josephine Ouko emphasized that the national budget is more than a financial document; it is a reflection of the nation’s collective priorities and values. She highlighted the significance of inclusivity in the budgetary process, particularly for the marginalized voices.

Dr. Belio Kipsang, the Basic Education Principal Secretary, conveyed through a proxy, Wekesa Kahonya, that the upcoming budget would be guided by the Bottom Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). This approach aims to drive job creation and economic growth by focusing on key sectors like agriculture, small and medium enterprises, housing, and digital and creative industries.

The outcomes of the public forums are expected to instill a sense of ownership among the citizens, leading to greater transparency and accountability in government spending. Dr. Kipsang pointed out that such engagement strengthens government-citizen trust and leads to more harmonious governance. He also mentioned that stakeholder participation allows for the identification of socio-economic challenges and the development of localized solutions, fostering inclusivity and preventing resource wastage and role duplication.