Uasin Gishu Residents Highlight Key Priorities in 2025/2026 National Budget Forum
He added that Sh800 billion would be borrowed, primarily from domestic sources, to fund development without destabilizing the economy.
Uasin Gishu Residents Highlight Key Priorities in 2025/2026 National Budget Forum. Photo/KNA.
By Kemuma Achieng
Hundreds of Uasin Gishu residents gathered on Thursday at Eldoret’s County Hall to contribute to shaping Kenya’s 2025/2026 national budget, raising key issues such as road infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
The forum, led by Samuel Atandi, Chairperson of the National Assembly’s Budget and Appropriations Committee, offered citizens a rare opportunity to voice their concerns directly to policymakers.
The most pressing issues raised included poor road networks that continue to hinder farmers from transporting maize and coffee to markets, the lack of essential medical equipment at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, and the urgent need for more schools and scholarships for orphaned and vulnerable children.
“These are the real issues facing our people,” said a nurse from Turbo. “Better equipment guarantees better care, and our patients deserve that.” A teacher from Kesses added emotionally, “Education is the key to a better future. We need more schools and scholarships to help our children.”
Atandi reassured participants that their input would be factored into the final budget proposal. “Your ideas—roads, healthcare, farming, schools—will guide our final budget,” he said, receiving applause from the crowd.
The national budget is expected to total Sh4.2 trillion. Of this, Sh2.5 trillion is allocated to national government operations, Sh405 billion to county governments, Sh1 trillion to debt repayment, and Sh300 billion to pensions and constitutional commissions.
Addressing concerns over public debt, Atandi emphasized the government’s commitment to fiscal responsibility. “We want to live within our means—no new taxes and reduced reliance on foreign loans,” he said.
He added that Sh800 billion would be borrowed, primarily from domestic sources, to fund development without destabilizing the economy.
Local Members of Parliament from Soy, Kesses, and Turbo constituencies also attended the forum, voicing support for their constituents and praising the strong turnout and active civic engagement.
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