Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has said the 2026/27 national budget has been prepared under challenging economic conditions influenced by global economic disruptions, inflationary pressure, and weak revenue performance, but insists it remains aligned with public priorities and sector-specific needs.

Speaking ahead of the budget presentation in the National Assembly on Thursday 11th June 2026, Mbadi noted that the fiscal framework reflects extensive public engagement conducted earlier in the year, with all proposals already shared with citizens for input.

“The budget estimates and the revenue-raising measures have been with the public from April 30 to date. There are really no surprises; what remains is giving details of what is already in the estimates,” he said.

He added that the formulation of the budget was constrained by multiple economic headwinds, making fiscal planning more demanding than in previous years.

“There is no easy budget. This year’s budget is even more challenging because it is informed by a major external shock, underperformance in revenue collection and rising inflation,” Mbadi stated.

According to the Treasury CS, feedback from public participation forums significantly influenced budget priorities, particularly in key sectors such as health, education, infrastructure, agriculture, and social protection.

He further highlighted government efforts to enhance food security through interventions like subsidised fertilisers and improved seed distribution to farmers.

“The proposed budget reflects what Kenyans told us during public participation. We have taken those views seriously and integrated them into the final framework,” he added.

Mbadi’s remarks come as East African countries, including Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, prepare to unveil their respective 2026/27 financial plans before their national legislatures on the same day.

Kenya, being the region’s largest economy, is expected to significantly influence the broader East African fiscal outlook and policy direction as the budget cycle unfolds across the bloc.