Leaders praise Budget, say it is among the best

By Alex Ndegwa

Former Finance Minister Chris Okemo praised Uhuru Kenyatta’s budget as "expansionary", saying increased expenditure in development charts the path to growth.

The Nambale MP said the minister injected a stimulus that was in line with the practice in the US and Germany.

Mr Okemo lauded the emphasis on devolution of funds as evident by the basketful of goodies the minister handed to constituencies.

"The only problem is, if there are conflicting interests between line ministries and MPs at the constituencies. But if we overcome this challenge we are headed for good things," he said.

Gichugu MP Martha Karua termed the budget among the best. She said the devolved funds would go along way in "changing the face of the country".

"If the Government can match the policies with actions, I am sure the country would move forward," the former Justice Minister said.

Medical Services Minister Anyang Nyong’o said the heath sector required lots of investment and thanked the minister for allocating a chunk of the pie.

Donor funds

Mr Nyong’o said Government was exploring concessionary funds from donors, citing a Dutch project to refurbish 25 district hospitals.

Livestock Assistant Minister Aden Dualle praised the budget as "historic" and one that had "taken resources to all Kenyans".

"This is the first time a finance minister has ensured equitable distribution of resources," he said.

Sports Minister Hellen Sambili termed the budget, "well thought out" and one that would "uplift Kenyans".

Finance Minister Uhuru Kenyatta read his first Budget Speech, on Thursday, which many people applauded as a good attempt at keeping everyone happy.