The Budget and Appropriations Committee, chaired by Hon. Samuel Atandi (Alego Usonga), has officially commenced the review of several legislative proposals aimed at addressing critical gaps in various sectors of Kenya's economy and public service. These proposals, presented by Members of Parliament, seek to enhance sectoral growth, improve governance, and foster sustainable development across the country.
The first proposal came from Hon. Gitonga Mukunji (Manyatta), who introduced the Macadamia Development Bill, 2024. The proposed legislation seeks to regulate the production, processing, marketing, and promotion of macadamia in Kenya. It also recommends the establishment of the Macadamia Development Board of Kenya to oversee industry growth and development.
"Our macadamia industry has immense potential, and it is high time we organized it through legislation," stated Hon. Mukunji. "This Bill will create a structured framework for farmers, processors, and marketers, helping to boost exports and improve local incomes."
In another presentation, Hon. Caroli Omondi (Suba South) submitted two significant proposals. The Registration of Persons (Amendment) Bill, 2024 seeks to establish a national program for registering secondary school students who turn 18 while still in school. The registration would be provided at no cost, ensuring that young Kenyans have access to essential services such as government aid, scholarships, and voter registration.
"Registering students who turn 18 while still in school offers multiple benefits for both the students and the country," said Hon. Omondi. "It grants them legal recognition and opens doors to opportunities that would otherwise be inaccessible."
Additionally, Hon. Omondi introduced the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which proposes a new Section 7A to allow individuals born outside Kenya but of Kenyan descent to acquire citizenship by ancestry. The conditions outlined in the Bill include verification of lineage, a clean criminal record, financial self-sufficiency, and the ability to contribute to Kenya’s development through investment or other initiatives.
Meanwhile, Hon. (Dr.) Wilberforce Oundo (Funyula) tabled the Textile and Apparel Industry Development Bill, 2024. This Bill aims to provide a regulatory framework that strengthens the linkages between raw material producers, manufacturers, and retailers in the textile sector. It proposes the creation of the Textile and Apparel Development Authority of Kenya and introduces a new Textile and Apparel Levy on imports and exports of textiles and related goods.
"This Bill will be a catalyst for growth in our textile industry, promote local production, and reduce dependency on second-hand imports," said Hon. Oundo, stressing the importance of the sector's development for economic growth and job creation.
In addition, Hon. Brighton Yegon (Konoin) presented the Records and Archives Management Professional Bill, 2024, which aims to professionalize and regulate the field of records and archives management. The proposed Bill suggests the formation of the Institute of Records and Archives Management and the establishment of a governing Council to oversee professional standards and governance.
"Currently, there is no legislation that regulates records and archives management professionals," said Hon. Yegon. "This Bill seeks to address this gap and underscore the vital role this profession plays in both public and private sectors."
The Budget and Appropriations Committee will now proceed with a detailed review of the legislative proposals, engaging with stakeholders and conducting thorough scrutiny to determine the viability and potential impact of each proposal. Following this process, the committee will issue recommendations on whether to approve or reject the proposed bills.
The ongoing review reflects the government’s commitment to addressing key challenges in sectors such as agriculture, education, industry, and professional governance, paving the way for a more organized and sustainable development agenda in Kenya.
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