John Mbadi Pushes Grassroots Budget Talks, Promises Transparency and Timely Funds

Residents across Busia County have been assured of greater involvement in Kenya’s budget-making process as Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to grassroots economic engagement.

Speaking during the Gumzo la Uchumi Mashinani forum that brought together religious leaders from across the county, Mbadi said wananchi must be actively involved in discussions on public resource mobilization, budget allocation, and implementation to strengthen accountability and national development.

“This initiative strengthens dialogue between the government and citizens and promotes greater understanding of economic and fiscal issues,” said Mbadi. “The forum underscores the government’s commitment to engaging wananchi directly on matters of economic management and public finance.”

The Treasury CS noted that Kenya’s economy remains resilient despite global and regional economic pressures, citing recent data showing growth of nearly five percent.

According to Mbadi, strong performance in agriculture, accommodation, and financial services has continued to support economic expansion, with Kenya’s nominal GDP now standing at approximately Sh18 trillion.

He said the positive growth trajectory provides a strong foundation for job creation, improved livelihoods, and long-term development.

Mbadi also assured counties of timely release of funds to support uninterrupted delivery of services, saying the government remains committed to strengthening devolution.

“Currently, we are disbursing nearly Sh5.3 billion every month to NG-CDF, and the allocation for May has already been released,” he said.

The CS further advocated for the adoption of e-procurement systems to curb corruption and enhance transparency in public procurement processes.

“The main source of theft of public funds is during procurement and tender awarding. We want the process to be open so that someone in Busia can bid for a tender in another county and be awarded purely on merit and qualification,” he added.

Mbadi also pledged continued government support for Busia County through investments in trade infrastructure, agriculture, fisheries, logistics, and cross-border commerce, describing the county as a strategic hub within the East African trade corridor.