Lusaka signs Sh15.9 billion Bungoma budget into law, promises equitable growth

Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka during a church function. [Photo, Standard]

Governor Kenneth Lusaka has signed into law Bungoma County's Sh15.9 billion Finance and Appropriation Bill for the 2025/2026 fiscal year, unveiling an ambitious blueprint he says is aimed at fast-tracking equitable growth and improving public service delivery across the region.

The signing ceremony, held at the county headquarters, was witnessed by County Assembly Speaker Emmanuel Situma, Clerk Charles Wafula, Deputy Speaker Steve Wamalwa, and several Members of the County Assembly.

Of the total budget, Sh10.86 billion, about 68 per cent, is earmarked for recurrent spending, while Sh5.06 billion (32 per cent) will fund development projects.

Governor Lusaka described the plan as "a visionary budget" that reflects the collective will and priorities of Bungoma residents.

"This is more than figures. It is a commitment to translate our people's hopes into tangible results," he said.

Key investments highlighted in the budget include the completion of the Brigadier-Misikhu Road, the construction of modern markets in Kanduyi and Kamukuywa, and the continued expansion of Masinde Muliro Stadium.

The county will also channel resources towards equipping health facilities such as Bungoma County Referral Hospital and Sirisia Sub-County Hospital.

The governor announced an expanded agricultural support package that includes subsidised fertiliser, certified seeds, and crop insurance. The budget also sets aside funds for youth, women, and persons living with disabilities, aligning with the county's social inclusion agenda.

In a nod to grassroots development, Sh1.55 billion will go towards ward-based projects, translating to roughly Sh34.5 million per ward. Lusaka said the allocation honours the spirit of devolution and empowers local decision-making.

"This budget is a product of extensive public participation - from women's groups in Sirisia to farmers in Tongaren and business leaders in Bungoma town. Your voices shaped this document," Lusaka said.

The county expects to raise Sh1.29 billion from its health facilities and has allocated Sh361 million for donor counterpart funding.

He reaffirmed his administration's commitment to fiscal discipline, promising enhanced revenue collection through digitisation and strict adherence to transparency and oversight protocols.

He urged leaders to focus on development rather than political rivalry.

"Let us not be defined by political noise but by the results we deliver," he said. "Together, we can build a prosperous, inclusive, and dignified Bungoma."

Lusaka further urged Bungoma residents to actively support the implementation of the budget, describing it as a shared journey towards a stronger and more resilient county.