Members of the Kiambu County Assembly have raised tough questions over spending priorities, stalled development projects, and funding allocations during review sessions on the Supplementary Budget Estimates II for the 2026 financial year.
The discussions, held through various departmental committees, brought together MCAs and County Executive officials to deliberate on recurrent and development expenditure, Programme-Based Budgeting, revenue projections, and accountability in the use of public funds.
The meetings were held on 28 May 2026 and involved key committees including Health, Public Service and Administration, Planning and Urbanization, ICT, Transport, Public Works and Infrastructure, and Finance and Economic Planning.
Each committee engaged respective county officials, seeking clarification on how funds have been utilized and why some projects remain incomplete despite previous budget allocations.
MCAs expressed concern over low budget absorption rates across several departments, questioning why development projects continue to stall even after funds are approved in the county budget.
In particular, the Health Committee raised issues surrounding healthcare service delivery, availability of medical supplies, staffing levels, and hospital security. Members also questioned the withdrawal of funds linked to the Social Health Authority (SHA), noting the absence of clear budgetary allocation.
During the session, County Executive Committee Member for Health, Dr. Elias Maina, explained that SHA funds were not included in the supplementary budget due to the absence of an agreement between the county government and the authority.
“No money will be allocated to SHA in the budget because no agreement was reached, so the funds will be redirected to other priorities,” he stated.
Elsewhere, the Planning and Urbanization Committee raised concerns over delays in issuing title deeds within the county and the settlement of pending bills for completed projects.
The committee chair also singled out the Harunani project, urging the department to fast-track payment, citing prolonged delays that have affected implementation progress.
“I urge the department to treat the Harunani project as a priority, as payment delays have gone on for too long,” the chair noted.
Across the sessions, MCAs continued to push for clarity on budget adjustments, revenue projections, and accountability mechanisms, stressing the need for improved transparency in county spending.
County Executive officials defended the supplementary budget proposals, explaining that adjustments were necessary due to implementation challenges and evolving financial priorities.
They further assured the MCAs that measures were being taken to improve efficiency, strengthen service delivery, and ensure better utilization of public resources across all departments in the county.
The supplementary budget review process is expected to continue as both arms of government work towards final approval and alignment of county priorities for the financial year.
