Kapenguria: Residents of West Pokot have voiced their concerns over insufficient budgetary allocations during a public hearing conducted by the National Assembly Budget and Appropriations Committee at Mtello Hall in Kapenguria town. The residents argued that the current allocation fails to address the pressing challenges faced by the remote county.
According to Kenya News Agency, local leaders and stakeholders presented memorandums highlighting urgent development needs such as poor road networks, lack of electricity, inadequate water supply, a shortage of health facilities, youth unemployment, and insufficient government support for hard-to-reach areas. The event, led by Endebese MP Dr. Robert Pukose, aimed to gather public input for the 2026/2027 financial estimates.
Dr. Pukose emphasized the importance of public participation, noting that the Constitution of Kenya 2010 empowers citizens to engage in decision-making processes that affect their communities. He assured residents that their views would be considered by the committee. Many residents expressed frustration over continued underdevelopment despite previous appeals for support in past budget cycles.
Dr. Pukose explained the differences between the current budgeting process and those under previous administrations, highlighting the role of devolution in resource allocation. He noted the challenges faced in implementing projects proposed during earlier forums due to financial constraints following the rejection of the Finance Bill.
The Budget and Appropriations Committee is conducting public participation exercises in 26 counties, targeting those historically marginalized. Dr. Pukose raised concerns over the utilization of Equalization Funds, alleging mismanagement by some county governments. He called for better coordination to ensure effective use of resources.
Kapenguria MP Samuel Chumel Moroto and Kacheliba MP Titus Lotee echoed the call for increased budget allocations, emphasizing the need for urgent interventions in marginalized areas. Lotee highlighted ongoing challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and unimplemented projects, urging the committee to prioritize the county’s needs in the upcoming budget.
Khwisero MP Christopher Aseka Wangaya stressed the importance of civic education to help residents understand the allocation of national and county funds. He highlighted issues such as poor road infrastructure and difficulties faced by youth in accessing government funds.
Residents urged the national government to ensure equitable resource distribution, emphasizing that improved infrastructure and services would enhance livelihoods and reduce poverty. County Commissioner David Saruni assured that the recommendations from the forum would be considered in the national budget estimates for the 2026/2027 fiscal year.
