WAJIR- A section of the National Assembly’s Budget and Appropriations Committee, led by Hon. Aden Keynan (MP, Eldas), today convened a public participation forum at the ICT Hall in Wajir County to collect views from the public on the proposed budget estimates for the Financial Year 2025/2026.
Hon. Keynan was accompanied by Hon. Joseph Lekuton (MP, Laisamis) and Hon. Mohamed Abdi (MP, Lafey) in a session that brought together residents and stakeholders from all six constituencies of Wajir County—Wajir East, Wajir West, Wajir North, Wajir South, Eldas, and Tarbaj.
The public consultation aligns with Article 221(5) of the Constitution of Kenya, which mandates the Budget and Appropriations Committee to seek public input during budget deliberations. Speaking during the forum, Hon. Keynan underscored the centrality of citizen involvement in the budget-making process.
Wajir residents have called for the prioritization of water, education, power connectivity and infrastructure in the 2025/2026 national budget during a public participation forum led by Eldas MP Aden Keynan.
The forum also saw persons with disabilities raise concerns over… pic.twitter.com/HBaQBGTFfV
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“The Constitution is clear—sovereign power belongs to the people. Through this engagement, we ensure that the voices of Wajir residents are not only heard but also reflected in the national budget,” said Hon. Keynan. “The President has taken deliberate steps to integrate historically marginalised communities. From ending the discriminatory ID vetting process to ensuring equitable development allocations, this region is now part of the national agenda.”
Hon. Lekuton echoed these sentiments, reiterating the importance of public participation and the government’s commitment to inclusivity.
“Our role is to amplify your voices at the national level. This forum is your opportunity to tell us what matters most in your daily lives—education, water, healthcare, infrastructure—so that the government can respond appropriately,” he said.
Deputy Governor of Wajir, H.E. Ahmed Muhumed, while welcoming the MPs, challenged residents to take an active role in shaping the budget.
“It is up to the people of Wajir to interrogate these estimates and ensure their views are captured. The principle of ‘funds follow functions’ must be respected, especially in devolved sectors like ECD,” he said.
Residents highlighted a range of priority areas requiring immediate attention. Chief among them were water scarcity, inadequate infrastructure, teacher shortages, and limited power connectivity. Youth and community leaders made passionate pleas for targeted investments in sports facilities and creative sectors to curb drug abuse and nurture talent.
“There is no development without power,” stated Mr. Gurre, a local leader. “Without electricity, we cannot run businesses, power schools, or grow our economy.”
“I’ve voted in every election over the past 40 years,” said Mr. Ibrahim Mohamed, a resident. “But the water problem still persists. We need lasting solutions, not more promises. Life is tough, and school fees are becoming unbearable.”
Hon. Mohamed Abdi (MP, Lafey) urged young people to take part in the ongoing budget consultations and stressed the need for practical solutions.
“We are here to collect your views and ensure your priorities inform national allocations. I urge the youth to engage meaningfully—this is your future,” he said.
The forum also saw persons with disabilities raise concerns over unemployment, calling for affirmative action in budget allocations to expand opportunities for employment and inclusion.
The Committee assured the residents that all submissions will be carefully considered when compiling recommendations for the final budget proposal to be presented before the National Assembly.
“This is not a tick-box exercise,” concluded Hon. Keynan. “We are here to listen and to act. Your voice matters.
