Budget Committee Commences Review of the Departmental Committee Reports on the Supplementary Budget
The Committee on Budget Appropriations commenced the review of Departmental Committee reports on the 2023/24 1st Supplementary Budget Estimates. In a session chaired by Hon. David Ochieng (Ugenya), the committee received reports from three Committee chairpersons—Hon. (Dr.) Robert Pukose (Health), Hon. Gitonga George Murugara (Justice & Legal Affairs), and Hon. Gideon Ochanda, representing the Lands Committee chairperson.
During the meeting, Hon. Murugara appealed for the reconsideration of the initial budget allocation to agencies overseen by his Committee, emphasizing the need to achieve projected targets for the Financial Year 2023-24.
Hon. Ochanda, while presenting the Lands Committee report, highlighted the revenue potential of the State Departments for Lands and Physical Planning, proposing a future framework for realization.
Additionally, he requested a refund of budget cuts to the underfunded National Lands Commission, expressing concerns about the impact on its mandate and public service delivery.
“The budget cut on the recurrent expenditure will largely affect the National Lands Commission mandate and service delivery to the public,” said Hon. Ochanda.
Addressing proposed re-alignments, Hon. (Dr.) Pukose advocated for additional funding, urging the Budget Committee’s consideration. To mitigate the impact of budget cuts on key programs, he recommended enhanced coordination between the National Treasury and the Ministry of Health, involving technical staff in the preparation of Supplementary Estimates.
During deliberations, the Committee underscored the importance of considering the current macroeconomic environment in Departmental Committee submissions.
Looking ahead, the Budget and Appropriations Committee (BAC) is set to review more Departmental Committee reports on Friday, 9th November 2023.
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