On Tuesday, September 10, 2024, Members of the Kitui County Assembly commenced a four-day public participation exercise on the Kitui County Annual Development Plan (ADP) for the fiscal year 2025/2026. This initiative aligns with Article 196 (1) (b) of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, which mandates public involvement in legislative processes.
The exercise is led by the County Assembly Committee on Finance and Economic Planning and aims to collect views from residents across the county.
On the first day, participants from the five wards of Kitui Central Sub-county gathered at Kwa Ukungu Youth Hall in Kyangwithya East Ward to engage in discussions about the ADP for the upcoming fiscal year.
Hon. Peter Kitonyo Mwanza (Mulango), who leads the delegation, emphasized the significance of the Annual Development Plan as a key county planning document that guides project implementation across various county ministries as outlined in the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP 2023/2027).
He noted that this exercise marks the start of the budget-making process for the financial year 2025/2026, underscoring the importance of public input.
“This is a key document in the planning and budget-making process for any county government, as per Section 126 (1) of the Public Finance Management Act, 2012, and as such, your views are very important to us as an Assembly,” said Hon. Mwanza, appreciating the public and other stakeholders for their participation.
The turnout was impressive, with hundreds of community members actively engaging in discussions, raising concerns, and offering feedback on the ADP. Key issues highlighted included the need for improved road infrastructure to boost accessibility and local economic activities, the importance of sustainable water supply projects like boreholes to address persistent water shortages, and the demand for security lighting in shopping centers to enhance safety. Additionally, there was a call for the development of playgrounds and recreational facilities to benefit the youth and foster community well-being.
The public participation exercise will continue tomorrow, Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at Kirira Social Hall in Tharaka Ward, Mwingi North Sub-county, and at Ikutha Chief’s Camp in Ikutha Ward, Kitui South Sub-county, starting at 10:00 a.m.
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