The Budget and Appropriation Committee of the National Assembly has officially commenced its deliberations on the budget estimates for the 2024/2025 financial year. The five-day workshop, which began today, is focused on determining sector-specific budget allocations essential for effective service delivery to Kenyans.
As the Vice Chairperson of the committee, I outlined the purpose of this critical exercise, which involves reviewing sector reports to guide decisions on the allocation of funds for the upcoming fiscal year. These allocations are vital to ensuring that key public services, ranging from healthcare to infrastructure, are adequately funded to meet the needs of the Kenyan people.
The budget process is a lengthy and meticulous one, enshrined in law. It mandates that every sector committee scrutinize the proposed budget to ensure it aligns with the fiscal policy framework paper. The committee will consider available resources before making its final decisions.
The process for this year's budget began in July last year, with the public playing an essential role in the formulation through participation forums where Kenyans proposed their priorities for the government’s spending.
"I want to reassure Kenyans that the budget for the fiscal year 2024/2025 is designed with the welfare of every Kenyan in mind," I stated during the opening remarks. "It is aimed at improving service delivery, ensuring that resources are allocated in ways that address our country’s most pressing needs."
Together with my colleagues on the committee, we will ensure that the budget adheres to legal requirements, and we will thoroughly assess how the previous year's funds were utilized, ensuring they were spent effectively and efficiently.
The committee's deliberations will be crucial in shaping the final budget for the 2024/2025 financial year, determining how the government will allocate resources to support national development goals and improve the quality of life for all Kenyans.
