Nairobi residents to play key role in 2025-26 budget through county-wide consultations

Nairobi residents will now participate in the County's budget-making process.

The Public forums will cut across 17 sub-counties and will gather input for the 2025/26 Annual Development Plan.

In a public notice on August 13, the County called on residents and stakeholders to help shape the Annual Development Plan (ADP) for the Financial Year.

Godfrey Akumali, Acting County Secretary and Head of County Public Service will spearhead the public involvement in decision-making.

According to the County, it seeks to follow the constitutional requirements of Article 10 of the Constitution of Kenya Section 115(1) of the County Government Act, and Section 6 (a) iv of the Nairobi City County Public Participation Act 2015.

The law provides for Public involvement and engagement in decision-making.

According to the County, this move will hold on to its County Fiscal Strategy Paper (CFSP) to help come up with a budget based on what residents want.

Additionally, the meeting is subject to occur in 17 Sub Counties on Tuesday, August 20, and Wednesday, August 21, 2024, from 9:30 AM.

The Forums will be conducted at various locations throughout the city, including City Park in Westlands, Dagoretti Muslim Primary School, Woodley Greens Ground in Kibra, and Kasarani Health Centre, among others.

In a nod to technological advancement and accessibility, the County also provided a digital participation option through the website www.participatenairobi.co.ke on the Civic Voices platform.

This online avenue allows for broader engagement, especially for those unable to attend physical meetings.

Further, those who may not physically attend are advised to electronically submit their views for consideration.

"Written memoranda may be submitted to Public Participation Offices on 2nd Floor, Main City Hall Building, or via email before or on February 21, 2024," a notice said.

This public participation drive underscores the County's commitment to transparent and inclusive governance.

It will provide a platform for Nairobi's diverse population to contribute to the city's development trajectory, ensuring that the ADP reflects the genuine needs and aspirations of its residents.

In adherence to Section 126 of the Public Finance Management Act, 2012, the County government is formulating the ADP, which will outline implementation priorities for the upcoming fiscal year.

They added that the plan will be submitted to the County Assembly by September 1, 2024.

These sessions aim to identify ward-based priorities and gather stakeholder feedback on the draft ADP.

Various groups including neighbourhood associations, special interest groups, and private sector representatives are also invited to participate.

Written by Harrison Ngola.