Tuesday, 8 April, 2025
Economic planning PS Nominee outlines vision for state department during vetting session by finance committee๐๐ฎ๐ง๐ ๐ ๐๐จ๐ฐ๐๐ซ|๐ ๐ซ๐ข๐๐๐ฒ ๐๐ฉ๐ซ๐ข๐ฅ ๐, ๐๐๐๐
The nominee for the position of Principal Secretary, Economic Planning, Dr. Bonface Makokha, has presented his vision for the State Department to the Hon. Kimani Kuria-led Departmental Committee on Finance and National Planning during his approval hearings this afternoon.
Dr. Makokha, currently a Senior Monitoring and Evaluation and Resource Mobilization Expert with WASDA, a USAID program, emphasized the need to develop infrastructure and explore alternative funding sources, given the country's high debt levels.
"Honourable Chair, the optimal infrastructure funding model should involve extensive public participation, as mandated by law, and the utilization of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)โ, he stated.
โPrioritizing debt repayment and aligning project implementation with the Medium Term Plan IV, while identifying key funding priorities, is crucialโ, Dr. Makokha added.
When questioned about his previous experience and how it enhances his suitability for the role, the nominee pledged to provide strong leadership, foster teamwork, and maintain an open-door policy. He cited his experience as the United Nations point person for budget development as relevant preparation for this new role.
Regarding Vision 2030, Dr. Makokha stressed the importance of aligning long-term national plans with continental and intercontinental frameworks.
He also committed to promoting gender-sensitive budgeting of approved, drawing on his experience in supporting senior gender advisors at the United Nations which also saw him develop women empowerment projects.
Addressing potential challenges on the role, Dr. Makokha highlighted the importance of clear communication, inclusive decision-making, and accommodating diverse viewpoints.
On devolution, he underscored the need for ward-level officers to effectively support counties. He also pledged that he would champion for collaboration with the Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA) to ensure structured planning officers are available in every county.
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Born in 1975, Dr. Bonface Makokha holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from Kenyatta University, a Master of Divinity Degree from Teleo University in the USA, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Mediation and Conflict Resolution.