Open Budget and Access to Information (KEKAK0003)

Commitment ID

KEKAK0003

Commitment Title

Open Budget and Access to Information

Problem

Data needed for strengthening accountability, improving transparency, planning, and measuring the progress of implementation of programs, projects, and processes in government is not easily available or usable. This creates an environment for perpetuation of corrupt practices, insufficient evidence to support decision-making, and inefficient use of human, financial, and other resources in the public sector. Ultimately, citizens and the general public are affected due to the failure to implement key infrastructure projects effectively and in many instances failures in service delivery. This commitment therefore aims to address the lack of data for development which makes it difficult to strengthen accountability and ensure that policies/programs being implemented do not result in some within the society being left behind.

Status quo

The current policy on open budgets and access to information in Kakamega County has notable gaps despite some progress. The county publishes key documents like the Annual Development Plan (ADP) and County Fiscal Strategy Paper but fails to consistently release others, such as quarterly budget implementation reports and the Citizen Budget. This limits public participation and oversight as mandated by Kenya’s Public Finance Management Act, 2012. Accessibility of information online remains inconsistent, with stakeholders struggling to track project implementation and financial allocations. Calls for improvement have highlighted the need for transparency to enhance accountability and service delivery.

Action

The commitment to open budgets and access to information involves ensuring transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in public financial management. It requires the timely publication of budget documents, such as fiscal strategies, implementation reports, and citizen-friendly summaries, while providing accessible platforms for public participation in decision-making processes.

Expected Results:
Increased public trust and accountability through transparency in the use of public funds. Enhanced citizen participation in governance by enabling informed engagement with budgetary decisions. Improved service delivery and resource allocation as a result of stakeholder oversight and input. Strengthened donor confidence and investment by showcasing financial integrity

How will the commitment contribute to solving the public problem described above?

The commitment to open budgets and access to information directly addresses key public challenges related to governance, resource allocation, and service delivery. It contributes to solving public problems in the following ways:
- Improved Accountability: By ensuring that budget documents are publicly accessible, the commitment reduces the risk of corruption and misuse of public funds. Transparent reporting enables stakeholders to monitor expenditures and hold officials accountable.
- Enhanced Public Participation: Open budget policies empower citizens to engage in decision-making processes, ensuring that public priorities align with community needs. This fosters inclusive development and equitable resource distribution.
- Better Service Delivery: Transparency in financial management helps ensure that allocated funds reach intended projects and services, enhancing efficiency and public satisfaction.
- Boosted Trust and Confidence: Open access to financial information builds trust between the government, citizens, and donors, encouraging further investments and collaborative governance.

What long-term goal as identified in your Open Government Strategy does this commitment relate to?

Goal 1 of the Open Government Vision

Primary Policy Area

Audits & Controls, Fiscal Openness

Primary Sector

Cross-sectoral, Public Services (general)

What OGP value is this commitment relevant to?