By Joshua Otieno | June 8, 2026
NAIROBI, KENYA — As Kenya enters a crucial budget week, the Government has urged citizens to closely follow the upcoming budget presentation, saying it will reveal key priorities aimed at shaping the country’s economic growth, education, healthcare, food security and overall development.
Speaking during a press briefing at Harambee Annex in Nairobi on Monday, June 8, Government Spokesperson Dr. Isaac Mwaura said the national budget goes beyond figures and allocations, describing it as a roadmap outlining the Government’s plans for improving the lives of Kenyans in the next financial year.
“The budget is not just a financial document. It reflects the Government’s priorities and commitment to transforming lives across different sectors,” said Dr. Mwaura.
He encouraged Kenyans to actively follow the budget process in Parliament to better understand how public resources will be distributed and how development programmes will be financed.
At the same time, the Government expressed concern over a growing wave of student unrest and school strikes reported in different parts of the country, warning that rising cases of indiscipline are becoming a serious national concern.
According to Dr. Mwaura, incidents involving school fires, destruction of property and violent behaviour among learners signal deeper social challenges that require urgent intervention beyond school disciplinary measures.
He noted that schools should remain safe environments where students are free to learn without fear, insecurity or disruption.
“What we are witnessing in schools today reflects broader societal challenges. Discipline starts at home, and parents must play a bigger role in shaping the values and behaviour of children,” he said.
The Government blamed some of the growing unrest on social pressures including substance abuse, negative peer influence, unchecked social media exposure and weakening family structures.
Dr. Mwaura urged parents, teachers, religious leaders and community elders to work together in mentoring young people and promoting integrity, patriotism and responsibility among learners.
He further emphasized the need for stronger guidance and counselling programmes to help address mental health struggles and behavioural challenges affecting young people.
The briefing also touched on the Government’s continued support for families affected by the tragic fire at Tumishi Girls Academy in Nakuru County, an incident that shocked the country and left several families grieving.
Dr. Mwaura assured affected families that Government agencies remain actively involved in supporting survivors, parents and school administrators as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
“The Government remains committed to standing with affected families and ensuring learners receive the care and support they need during this difficult moment,” he stated.
On matters of taxation, the Government cautioned Kenyans against misinformation circulating online concerning the Finance Bill 2026, warning that false claims risk creating unnecessary panic and confusion.
Dr. Mwaura urged the public to rely on official Government communication channels and parliamentary records for accurate information.
He reminded Kenyans that public participation remains open and encouraged citizens, businesses and stakeholders to submit views on the Finance Bill before Parliament concludes deliberations.
“Kenyans still have an opportunity to shape tax policy through public participation. We encourage constructive engagement based on facts, not misinformation,” said Mwaura.
The Government also defended proposed tax reforms, saying the measures are intended to attract investment, simplify compliance and create employment opportunities, particularly for young people entering the job market.
Among the proposals likely to benefit ordinary citizens is the planned removal of VAT on dialysis services, a move aimed at lowering healthcare costs for thousands of kidney patients across the country.
Dr. Mwaura noted that many families continue to struggle with expensive treatment costs and said the tax relief would significantly ease the burden.
Consumers may also benefit from lower prices on bottled water if Parliament approves proposed reductions in excise duty aimed at reducing production costs and making safe drinking water more affordable.
The Government further announced plans to tighten regulation of the scrap metal industry to combat vandalism targeting electricity infrastructure, railway lines, water systems and road installations.
According to Mwaura, theft and destruction of public infrastructure continue to cost taxpayers billions of shillings annually while disrupting essential public services.
On foreign relations, the Government hailed President William Ruto’s recent State Visit to South Africa, saying the trip secured major agreements expected to strengthen trade, education, skills development and regional cooperation.
Dr. Mwaura said Kenyan farmers, manufacturers and exporters stand to benefit from expanded market access for products such as tea, coffee, horticulture and manufactured goods.
The two countries also agreed to deepen cooperation in technical education and promote Kiswahili as a language of African integration and unity.
Meanwhile, the Government has heightened preparedness measures against Ebola amid outbreaks reported in neighbouring countries.
Dr. Mwaura revealed that more than 77,000 travellers have already undergone health screening at various entry points across the country as authorities intensify surveillance.
He added that 37 individuals are currently under quarantine and closely monitored, while healthcare workers, laboratories and rapid response teams remain on high alert.
“There is currently no Ebola case reported in Kenya, but we are remaining vigilant and fully prepared,” Mwaura assured.
Education is expected to receive one of the largest shares of Government funding in the coming financial year, with allocations targeting teacher recruitment, expansion of classrooms, implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum and improved access to higher education.
The Government also announced increased investment in fertilizer subsidies aimed at lowering farming costs, improving yields and strengthening national food security.
Additionally, more quality assurance officers will be deployed to schools across the country to strengthen monitoring, improve accountability and enhance learning outcomes.
As Parliament prepares to unveil the national budget, the Government says the coming week will provide a clearer picture of Kenya’s development priorities and the measures expected to shape the country’s economic and social direction in the year ahead.
