West Pokot: West Pokot County embarked on an extensive two-day public participation initiative, reaching each of the 20 wards to gather residents’ views on how government funds will be allocated for the fiscal year 2025/2026. This ambitious outreach programme aims to ensure that the voices of all residents are heard in the decision-making processes as enshrined in the 2010 Constitution.
According to Kenya News Agency, speaking at the Siyoi and Kapenguria Wards during the County Budget and Economic Forums (CBEF) chaired by the County Executive Committee Members (CECMs), the participants acknowledged the role being played by the government in ensuring that development projects meet the residents’ expectations. CECM Public Service Management (PSM), ICT, Administration, and Devolved Units Martin Lotee, along with his Water, Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change counterpart William Petot, thanked the residents for their active participation and invaluable input.
Lotee expressed gratitude for the residents’ involvement and urged them to prioritize the completion of ongoing projects before starting new ones. He advised the community to organize their priorities, emphasizing the efficient allocation of resources to address pressing issues first. Lotee further emphasized the importance of public participation, stating that the government is keen on listening to the people’s opinions on ward fund allocation and broader county development.
West Pokot residents expressed their opinions, placing health, education, and basic infrastructure as their top priorities. Many urged the county government to take their concerns seriously, particularly regarding the need for improved healthcare services, better educational facilities, and the development of essential structures such as roads and water systems. Residents highlighted these as fundamental services impacting their daily lives.
At Mtelo Hall in Kapenguria Ward, CECM Petot termed the engagement a success, where participants deliberated on priority projects for the next financial year as per the 2023-2027 County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) report. Petot emphasized the critical nature of public participation, noting that local residents understand their urgent needs, which helps the government in planning essential projects.
Kapenguria ward residents highlighted the need for improvements in road networks within the ward. They specifically mentioned roads leading to key locations like the St. Francis School for the Visually Impaired, which is in poor condition. Residents acknowledged the work done by the county government and noted the value of public participation forums.
Resident Eliza Lochang’ole argued that emphasis on road networks would spearhead development not only within the ward but also across the county, empowering women if the proposed projects are fully implemented. She expressed a desire for the road from Bendera through Kakrut to Keng’echwo to be upgraded, benefiting women doing business at the newly opened Bendera Market.