Kenya’s economy recorded an average growth rate of 5.0 per cent between 2022 and 2025, outperforming both global economic growth and the Sub-Saharan African average, as the government begins public consultations on the 2027/28 financial year budget.
The economy’s performance exceeded global growth of 3.4 per cent and Sub-Saharan Africa’s 4.1 per cent over the same period, reflecting the country’s continued economic resilience amid a challenging global environment.
The opening ceremony was attended by Principal Secretary for Economic Planning Dr Bonface Makokha and Alego Usonga Member of Parliament Samuel Atandi, who chairs the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Finance and National Planning.
The hearings provide a platform for stakeholders and members of the public to examine sector budget proposals and submit views and recommendations to guide the preparation of the national budget.
Over the next three days, participants are expected to assess proposed spending priorities and provide feedback aimed at ensuring public resources are allocated in line with national development objectives and the needs of citizens.
The consultations are also intended to strengthen transparency, accountability and responsiveness in the budget-making process by incorporating public views into government planning and expenditure decisions.
Meanwhile, the government has adjusted the budget calendar ahead of the August 2027 General Election to enable Parliament to approve the Budget Estimates by March 31, 2027.
The revised timeline is expected to support fiscal predictability and ensure continuity in public service delivery during the election period.
The early approval of the Budget Estimates is also intended to provide government agencies with greater certainty in planning and implementing programmes, while helping maintain stability in public expenditure management.
The FY 2027/28 budget process comes at a critical time as the government seeks to sustain economic growth, manage competing expenditure demands and ensure that public resources support development priorities.
The outcome of the hearings is expected to inform the preparation of a budget that balances economic objectives with the need for efficient public spending, improved service delivery and accountability to taxpayers.
By Fred Azelwa.