KCA University Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Finance, Planning & Development) Prof. Damiannah Kieti (right) joins Chief Guest Mr. Daniel Mainda, CEO of the Nairobi International Financial Centre Authority (centre), and KCA University Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation & Outreach) Prof. Vincent Onywera (left) during the CETE Finance & Appropriations Bill 2026 fiscal dialogue held at the main campus conference hall on May 28, 2026/COURTESY
Kenyan experts in taxation, public finance and economic policy have called for broader public participation and evidence-based debate on the Finance and Appropriations Bills 2026.
They warned that fiscal decisions made without adequate public engagement risk widening economic inequality and undermining sustainable growth.
The calls were made during a high-level fiscal dialogue convened by KCA University in Nairobi, bringing together policymakers, tax experts, students, academics and industry players to interrogate the country’s proposed tax and spending measures for the 2026 financial year.
The forum came at a time when Kenyans continue to grapple with the high cost of living, rising public debt and growing scrutiny over government expenditure and taxation policies.
Held under the theme “Strengthening Fiscal Policy Through Dialogue: Bridging Experts and the Next Generation on the Finance and Appropriations Bills 2026,” the discussions focused on fiscal sustainability, taxation, public expenditure priorities and the need for meaningful citizen participation in economic policymaking.
Speaking during the engagement, Nairobi International Financial Centre (NIFC) CEO Daniel Mainda said sustainable economic growth can only be achieved through informed and inclusive policy conversations.
“Inclusive and informed fiscal dialogue is essential in shaping sustainable economic growth. Platforms such as this help bridge expertise, public understanding and future leadership in economic policy,” said Mainda.
KCA University said the dialogue was aimed at deepening public understanding of fiscal measures while exposing students and young professionals to real-time national conversations on taxation, budgeting and governance.
Remarks delivered on behalf of the University Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaiah Wakindiki by Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance, Planning and Development Prof. Damiannah Kieti emphasised the role of universities in supporting national development through policy engagement and practical learning.
“KCA University remains committed to creating platforms that connect academia, policy and industry while equipping students with practical perspectives on national development and fiscal governance,” said Prof. Kieti.
Public finance experts who participated in the discussions urged the government to strike a balance between revenue collection and protecting households and businesses from excessive tax burdens.
The panel featured FCPA Robert Waruiru Kariuki, Convener of the Public Finance and Tax Committee at ICPAK, public finance expert Dr. Mumo Munde, Bajeti Hub Executive Director Dr. Abraham Rugo Muriu and Kenya Revenue Authority Assistant Manager for Civic Education and Tax Outreach Corazon Aquino.
The experts underscored the importance of public awareness and transparency in budget-making processes, noting that citizens must understand how tax proposals affect livelihoods, investment and economic growth.
They also stressed the need for prudent public spending, accountability and stronger civic engagement in shaping national fiscal priorities.
The dialogue further highlighted the growing role of higher learning institutions in fostering informed public discourse and building the next generation of professionals in taxation, governance and public finance.
Through its Centre of Excellence in Tax Education (CETE), KCA University said it will continue supporting policy literacy and evidence-based discussions on issues shaping Kenya’s economic future.
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