As Kirinyaga County continues its journey towards inclusive, sustainable growth and improved service delivery, the Programme Based Budget for the fiscal year 2025/26 marks a significant milestone in our development agenda. Anchored in the principles of accountability, public participation and value-for-money, this budget seeks to translate the aspirations of our people into measurable programmes, outcomes and outputs. At its core, this budget reflects three key priorities: strengthening essential services (notably health and infrastructure), enhancing the agricultural value chain and supporting equitable opportunities across wards. The County Government has allocated resources mindful of its equitable share from the national government, own-revenue potential and development grants, while aligning spending with the County Integrated Development Plan and medium-term strategy. In the health sector, the lion’s share of funding recognises that healthy citizens are the foundation of economic and social progress. Infrastructure development (especially roads and public utilities) receives elevated attention, as robust connectivity and reliable services are indispensable for both rural and urban households. Agriculture and value-addition are likewise emphasised: as one of Kenya’s key agricultural counties, Kirinyaga must not only produce but also process and market its produce to maximise returns and jobs. Public engagement remains central: extensive dialogue with residents has informed budget priorities, ensuring that allocations respond to local needs rather than distant abstractions. Each department has been tasked with articulating clear performance indicators — shifting the focus from merely spending inputs to generating tangible outcomes for our citizens. In preparing the 2025/26 Programme Based Budget, the County is committed to transparency and institutionalising efficiency by ensuring funds are directed to programmes with the greatest benefit. Our aim is a Kirinyaga in which every ward benefits fairly, where vulnerable youth access education support, infrastructure is upgraded, and livelihoods are strengthened. As we launch into this new financial year, we invite all stakeholders — county leadership, public officers, community members and development partners — to hold this budget as a living instrument. Let us track its implementation, measure its outcomes and refine our efforts as we advance. The road ahead is demanding, but the vision remains clear: a prosperous, equitable Kirinyaga where resources serve the people, and the people exercise rightful oversight.