The County Government of Bungoma wishes to commend the youth for their vigilance, engagement, and active participation in governance, especially concerning matters of resource allocation and youth empowerment programs. Your voice is not only heard but valued.
However, as we foster constructive dialogue, it is important that all stakeholders, including our vibrant youth, are guided by accurate and comprehensive information.
Firstly, we are pleased to clarify that in the proposed county budget, a significant allocation of KES 10 million has been set aside specifically for youth programs. This marks a major increase from the previous allocation of KES 600,000—demonstrating our strong commitment to uplifting the youth sector.
Secondly, while some have raised concerns regarding the absence of a dedicated Youth Fund, it is important to note that the Senate, through a formal advisory, discouraged such a fund unless counties have enacted clear legislation on how to recover disbursed monies. Without proper legal frameworks, such allocations risk attracting serious audit queries, which may hinder the sustainability and transparency of the program.
Furthermore, clarifications around the budget for the Office of the Governor are essential. This budget includes the remuneration of the entire county executive, comprising the cabinet, support staff, the Governor, and the Deputy Governor—as mandated by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC). It is not a personal allocation but a legally defined operational expense for county leadership.
The County Government of Bungoma remains firmly committed to youth empowerment and not only through funding opportunities but also through skills development, entrepreneurship support, talent promotion, and inclusion in decision-making processes. We believe that true empowerment is multi-dimensional and should be anchored in sustainability and accountability.
To our young people: you are not outsiders looking in. You are part of this government. Your energy, innovation, and courage are the foundation upon which Bungoma’s future is being built. We encourage continued engagement, partnership, and collaboration as we shape a county that leaves no one behind.
Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive Bungoma.
𝙃.𝙀 𝙍𝙩.𝙃𝙤𝙣. 𝙆𝙚𝙣𝙣𝙚𝙩𝙝 𝙇𝙪𝙨𝙖𝙠𝙖,
𝙂𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙣𝙤𝙧 𝘽𝙪𝙣𝙜𝙤𝙢𝙖 𝘾𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙮 .
