Kenya’s planning and budgeting process has four main stages. That is:
- Formulation
- Approval
- Implementing
- Oversight
Right now, we’re on stage no. 2 on the above list or approval stage. Many county executive arms of government made up of Governor, Deputy Governor and County Executive Committee Members (CECMs) have submitted their budget estimates to their respective county assemblies for approval.
Public Participation
The Constitution of Kenya 2010 and Public Finance Management Act 2012 makes public participation a legal requirement. It is not a favour, it is a must. Therefore, the Budget and Appropriation Committee in your county will announce for public forums and you will be expected to to give your valuable input.
Read More: 5 Reasons why Public Finance is important
Public participation is not about attending to be seen. No. You have also to be heard.
Tell your county government what they should prioritize for you.
Is it education, health, housing or roads?
Our impact as citizens will be more powerful if we engage in all stages. Starting with formulation of county plans such as County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP), Annual Development Plan (ADP), County Fiscal Strategy Paper (CfSP) among others.
Is it a waste of time to join the process in the middle?
All is not lost, it is better late than never. County assemblies are allowed to approve the budget estimates with or without amendments. Amendments are changes on the budget estimates. However, the amendments are limited to a certain percentage which I will highlight in my next article.
How do I communicate to my County Assembly?
You can communicate with the County Assembly’s budget and appropriation committee through a written memoranda or petition as well as an oral presentation before the committee during public forums.
Read More: Kisumu County Priorities in FY 2019/2020
