STATE DEPARTMENT FOR ECONOMIC PLANNING HOSTS “UCHUMI MASHINANI" BUSIA CHAPTER

The State Department for Economic Planning led by the National Treasury Cabinet Secretary FCPA Hon. John Mbandi, today ,22nd May, 2026 graced the "Gumzo la Uchumi Mashinani" in Busia County under the theme “Brethren to Brethren Fellowship.”

The forum brought together National Government officials, Busia County leadership, the clergy, youth, women groups, MSMEs, and farmers for a grassroots conversation on Economic Planning and Fiscal Year 2026/27 priorities.

The National Treasury Cabinet Secretary emphasized on moving “beyond Nairobi-centric planning” to make counties equal partners in economic transformation under BETA and MTP IV.

CS Mbadi also said "Every shilling in the next budget must show a clear path to jobs and growth being drawn from domestic taxes while managing unnecessary borrowing and debt, which is a reason why Government Electronic Procurement (GEP) is a key component in the government procurement today."

The discussions for this Economic Dialogue is centered on cross-border trade and economic activities at the Busia/Malaba corridor which includes agriculture value chains, youth employment through NYOTA, and strengthening accountability in county projects.The government is keen on supporting every household in gaining meaningful opportunities on employment.

The _Brethren to Brethren_ framing was used to highlight partnership between the government, faith leaders, and citizens in driving inclusive and resilient growth.

The feedback from this "Gumzo la Uchumi Mashinani " Dialogue will be incorporated into the draft _Kenya Economic Planning draft Policy_ and the 2026/27 Budget Policy Statement and any Economic Planning for development.

Present during the " Gumzo la Uchumi Mashinani" dialogue were the: Principal Secretary for Economic Planning Dr. Bonface Makokha, Principal Secretary for Industry Hon. Dr. Juma Mukhwana, Deputy Governor Busia County