Strengthening Public Participation in Kiambu County’s FY 2026/2027 Budget

Today, June 09 2026, I participated in the Gatundu North Sub-County Public Participation Forum on the Kiambu County FY 2026/2027 Budget.

Public participation provides residents with an important opportunity to scrutinize proposed budgets, raise concerns, and influence the development priorities of our county. During the forum, I raised several issues that I believe deserve clarification and consideration.

Key Issues Raised

1. Timely access to budget documents
I called for budget documents to be shared with residents in good time to allow adequate review, consultation, and informed participation before the forums are held.

2. Clear and accessible financial documents
I requested the provision of a glossary explaining abbreviations used in the budget documents, as well as the correction of typographical errors that may create confusion when interpreting financial information.

3. Makwa Shopping Centre PSF Project
I sought clarification on the KES 2.2 million allocation for the Makwa Shopping Centre PSF Project, including the specific activities and expected outcomes associated with the allocation.

4. Makwa Borehole Project
I raised questions regarding the proposed Makwa Borehole Project, which has been allocated KES 4.5 million. In particular, I sought clarity on the expected level of completion under the proposed allocation and the plan for operationalizing the borehole once the project is completed.

5. Proposed Kamwangi Bus Park
I called for disclosure of the proposed location of the planned Kamwangi Bus Park so that residents can understand the proposal and assess whether the proposed site is suitable for the intended purpose.

6. Network infrastructure development
I also called for consideration of budgetary allocation towards the establishment and expansion of network facilities infrastructure, which can support connectivity, digital services, access to information, and broader economic opportunities for our communities.

Residents Must Take Part

The public turnout at the forum was low. This is a concern because county budgets directly affect the services, infrastructure, and development projects delivered within our communities.

I therefore encourage residents of Gatundu North and Chania Ward to take advantage of future public participation forums. Our participation matters, our questions matter, and our voices matter in shaping the development priorities of our county.

A better county begins with informed citizens who are willing to participate and hold leadership accountable.

Charles M. Wambui
M.C.A Chania Ward 2027