Govt avails sh13.2b for orientation of newly elected local leaders

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Government has set aside sh13.2b to facilitate the orientation of newly elected local government leaders in a move aimed at strengthening service delivery and improving governance at the grassroots.

The permanent secretary in the Ministry of Local Government, Ben Kumumanya, revealed that sh13.2 billion has been earmarked for the induction of newly elected leaders across districts, municipalities and sub-counties in the 2026/2027 financial year.

Kumumanya informed the Parliamentary Committee on Local Government that the funding forms part of a broader increase in the ministry’s budget, which has risen to sh310.418 billion.

He said the provision follows a recommendation by Members of Parliament to train and equip newly elected leaders with the skills and knowledge needed for better service delivery.

“We want to thank the committee for the recommendation. The orientation programme will equip leaders with critical knowledge on their roles, responsibilities, financial management, and oversight functions,” Kumumanya said.

He added that the induction of local government leaders is essential to ensure they understand their mandate and can effectively supervise government programmes.

The programme is expected to cover district chairpersons, councillors and other local leaders who will assume office following the recent elections. It will also focus on key government priorities, including the implementation of national development programmes, accountability and monitoring of public service delivery.

The orientation exercise is expected to be rolled out nationwide at the start of the new financial year, ahead of the full assumption of duties by the newly elected leaders.

Members of Parliament welcomed the allocation, noting that inadequate orientation in the past had contributed to weak oversight and poor implementation of government programmes at the local level.

“Many of these leaders come into office without sufficient knowledge of public finance management and procurement processes. This orientation will help bridge that gap,” MP Pius Wakaba observed.

However, he cautioned that the effectiveness of the programme will depend on the timely release of funds and proper coordination by the Ministry.

Members also noted that despite the allocation, the Ministry is still grappling with broader funding constraints, which have affected key activities such as monitoring, inspections and infrastructure development in local governments.

Despite these challenges, officials expressed optimism that the orientation programme will play a critical role in improving governance outcomes, particularly in rural areas where service delivery gaps remain significant.

“If properly implemented, this induction will enhance accountability and ensure that local leaders are better prepared to deliver services to the people,” Kumumanya said.