02/06/2026
COUNTY ASSEMBLY STRENGTHENS OVERSIGHT CAPACITY THROUGH FY 2026/2027 BUDGET INDUCTION PROGRAMME
Members of the Budget and Appropriations Committee, alongside Chairpersons of various Sectoral Committees, have completed an intensive induction programme on the Budget Estimates for the Financial Year 2026/2027.
The exercise is designed to enhance Members’ technical capacity in budget scrutiny, analysis, and oversight ahead of consideration and approval of the proposed estimates submitted by the County Executive. It forms a critical component of the budget cycle, aimed at strengthening legislative effectiveness in public resource management.
The training focused on key areas of Public Finance Management, including budget formulation and ex*****on, fiscal policy frameworks, revenue projections, expenditure rationalisation, sectoral prioritisation, and the legal and regulatory provisions governing county budgeting.
Members were also taken through budget analysis methodologies, programme-based budgeting, and performance assessment tools to improve evidence-based decision-making.
Speaking during the induction, the Chairperson of the Budget and Appropriations Committee, Hon. Gildon Shioso, observed that the exercise would significantly enhance the Assembly’s oversight mandate by equipping Members with the requisite expertise to interrogate budget proposals with precision and objectivity.
He reiterated that budget scrutiny remains a core constitutional function of the Assembly, central to promoting fiscal discipline, transparency, and accountability in the use of public funds.
The Leader of Majority, Hon. Phillip Maina, underscored the importance of an informed legislature in safeguarding prudent expenditure of public resources, while Hon. Titus Kwoma called for a rigorous review of the estimates to ensure alignment with the development priorities and socio-economic aspirations of residents, as well as equitable resource distribution across all wards.
Kakamega County Director of Budget and Planning, CPA Herman Dennis Lusui, emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration between sectoral committees, the County Treasury, and departmental planners to ensure compliance with approved fiscal ceilings and eliminate duplication of programmes across departments. On his part, County Planner CPA Edward Kondit highlighted the importance of robust internal controls, adherence to statutory budgeting guidelines, and prudent debt management practices to ensure fiscal sustainability and long-term economic stability.
Deliberations during the session centred on the adequacy and efficiency of proposed allocations in addressing development priorities and strengthening service delivery. Members were further guided on identifying budgetary gaps, assessing programme performance, and ensuring strict alignment between expenditure frameworks and the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP).
Hon. Helemina L’lanziva, Chairperson of the Education, Science and Technology Committee, emphasized the need to prioritise investment in foundational education, strengthen Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) infrastructure, and expand support for county vocational and technical training institutions.
The induction marks a significant milestone in reinforcing legislative oversight and promoting a transparent, accountable, and results-oriented budgeting process as the County Assembly commences deliberations on the FY 2026/2027 Budget Estimates.
