As National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi prepares to present the 2025/2026 Budget in Parliament today, Kenyans across the country are voicing mixed expectations, with calls for increased investment in essential sectors and concerns over a possible rise in taxes.
The budget reading, scheduled for 3 pm on June 12, 2025, comes at a time when the government has raised the total expenditure to KSh 4.26 trillion, up from KSh 3.98 trillion in the previous financial year. The increase has sparked both hope and anxiety among citizens, depending on their economic outlook and daily struggles.
Among the key focus areas of the upcoming budget are education and infrastructure, which are expected to receive significant allocations. In Kangemi, a businesswoman underscored the need to prioritise education and agriculture, arguing that these sectors directly impact the cost of living and the future of Kenyan youth.
“More money should be allocated to the education and agriculture sectors to improve student learning and reduce the cost of food,” she said, urging the government to channel funds toward boosting livelihoods.
Healthcare has also emerged as a critical concern. A florist in Westlands expressed frustration over the shortage of essential medical supplies, particularly childhood vaccines.
“Look at the situation in hospitals. As a mother, I couldn’t find vaccines for my one-year-old twins in either public or private hospitals,” she lamented, calling for urgent action.
In contrast, a matatu driver welcomed the expanded budget, citing the need for increased government spending to match the country’s growing population. “This increase is not significant when you consider population growth,” he noted.
However, others fear that the larger budget could come at a personal cost. A small business owner voiced concerns about the likelihood of higher taxes. “With this increment, it’s clear more taxes will be introduced, which will make life even harder for us,” he said.
As the nation awaits CS Mbadi’s official statement, the sentiments on the ground reflect both hope for improved services and apprehension over the economic burden that may follow.
