By Peter Ochieng
Bungoma County has been recognized as the third most transparent county in the budget making process, behind Lamu and Makueni.
This, is according to the County Budget Transparency Survey (CBTS) 2023. Governor George Natembeya’s Trans Nzoia county was rated 47th.
Results of the survey revealed that Bungoma County made significant strides in budget transparency, improving its overall score and establishing itself among the top-performing counties in the country.
Bungoma was recognized for providing detailed feedback on public input that clarified the justification for adopted inputs, and indicated whether they influenced final budget decisions.
For the first time in four years, a statement by Bungoma County Director of Communications John Nalianya said the devolved unit published all four quarterly budget implementation reports, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to fiscal transparency.
“This accomplishment positions Bungoma as the leading county in making budget implementation reports publicly available,” stated the communique.
According to the CBTS 2023, Bungoma County scored 78 out of 100 points, a marked improvement from the 52 points managed in 2022.
Speaking at the awards ceremony in Nairobi, Bungoma governor Kenneth Lusaka emphasized the need to further improve public participation.
“It is only through public participation that citizens can feel part of the development process and ensure the prudent use of resources,” he said.
The governor used the opportunity to call on the County Assemblies across the country to stop what he termed as blanketly rebuking counties, urging them to address corruption at individual levels.
Governor Lusaka noted that devolution had gradually improved over the years, and that citizens are experiencing development at the county level.
The county was also praised for providing comprehensive details on revenue sources and targets in key budget documents, such as the Annual Development Plan (ADP) and the approved Program-Based Budget, which are essential for transparency and effective public participation.
The top ranking was also attributed to the county’s practice of ensuring that all key budget documents are published on time.