BUSIA, Kenya, Jan 19 – Busia Governor Paul Otuoma today inaugurated the County Budget Economic Forum (CBEF) to drive the devolved unit economic revival.
The panel will focus on infrastructure, health, education and economic investments.
Participants of the forum include former Attorney General Amos Wako, former Finance Minister and Member of Parliament for Nambale Chris Okemo, as well as Denis Awori from the private sector.
“This meeting is happening after sharp political division that we have seen for decades, and this session is about identifying opportunities for cooperation, even in fractured economic ties,” Governor Otuoma said.
“As a government, we will expect to get wise counsel from you and answers to some issues that we are grappling with,” he added.
This comes at a time when the County Government is in the initial stages of budgeting process and preparation of the third generation of the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) documents, that will need the Forum’s input and guidance.
“For us to reach to a level where we see the County providing even the basics to its people, there is a lot that needs to be put in place,” said Deputy Governor (DG) Arthur Odera, noting that they will also be engaging the public through public participation, to get their views that will guide them in decision making.
On his part, Wako acknowledged being included in the forum, adding that it will help them share their experiences and knowledge in matters finances and economic development generally.
“The County Government cannot deliver without finances and what it is getting from the National government is little and thus the need of this forum to bridge the gap,” he added.
Chris Okemo, being an expert in matters of finance and economics, said their role in the Forum is advisory and that he is hopeful their thoughts will be accepted so as to steer development in the County to further heights.
“But if we are smart, we will make the county economy, more resilient and not drag it into a place where we would all be poorer and less secure,” said Okemo.
Awori emphasized on the need of public participation, noting that Busia County is a sleeping giant in terms of economy and that it is high time the economy is unlocked.
