The Controller of Budget in Kenya, Margaret Nyakang’o, has raised alarms about funding shortfalls that jeopardize government oversight functions. Key operations, such as the automation of financial processes, remain unfunded despite budgeting efforts. This significantly impacts the CoB’s ability to uphold financial accountability and execute its mandate effectively, prompting concerns from Senate members regarding potential implications for public expenditure oversight.
Margaret Nyakang’o, the Controller of Budget (CoB) in Kenya, has issued a cautionary statement regarding significant funding shortfalls that threaten essential government oversight functions. One particular area at risk is the automation of financial oversight processes, which is vital for enhancing transparency and streamlining public fund management. Despite budgeting KSh 50 million for the Controller of Budget Management Information System (COBMIS), no funding has been allocated for its implementation.
In discussions with the Senate Finance Committee, Ms. Nyakang’o revealed that her office requested KSh 1.6 billion for the 2025/26 budget but was allocated only KSh 777.5 million, with actual funds amounting to KSh 613.8 million, leaving a substantial shortfall of KSh 579.3 million. She noted, “We budgeted KSh 50 million for the automation system, but we received zero funding, so this again is not going to be possible. We can’t talk about automation with zero budget.”
Although 20% automation of the withdrawal process was achieved by December 2024, full execution depends on cooperation with other institutions like the National Treasury and the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK). She underscored the necessity for these entities also to digitize their processes, stating, “Those who are sending us reports must also automate. The National Treasury must automate, and in the same process, the CBK must also automate.”
The Controller’s office faces additional funding challenges in critical areas such as personnel emoluments, which require KSh 182.8 million to implement a new staff grading structure. Furthermore, KSh 61.1 million is needed for public awareness initiatives regarding budget processes, and KSh 102 million is projected for legislative reforms, all of which remain unfunded.
Senators expressed grave concerns regarding the budget reductions, fearing they may impair financial accountability and oversight of public expenditures. Senator Bonnie Khalwale remarked, “We can’t have our young professionals…being paid peanuts when they are supposed to work in this critical office. Whatever expenses you have with them, share with us so that we can support whatever you have requested.” This highlights the pressing need for adequate financial support for the CoB to fulfill its constitutional mandate effectively.
In conclusion, the Controller of Budget’s warning emphasizes the serious implications of funding shortfalls on crucial oversight functions, particularly in the automation of financial processes. The lack of adequate resources not only hampers the CoB’s operations but also raises concerns over financial accountability across government entities. With Senators urging support for the CoB, it is clear that sustained funding is essential for enhancing public resource management and ensuring independent budget scrutiny.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
