John Mbadi made a formal and highly organised entry into Parliament Buildings on Thursday ahead of this year’s national Budget presentation, as attention turns to the Sh4.84 trillion spending plan set to shape government priorities for the 2026/27 financial year.
The National Treasury Cabinet Secretary arrived in a grey Peugeot that had been specially marked for the occasion, with its number plate clearly written “BUDGET FY 2026–2027,” signalling the importance of the day’s business. The car also flew the Kenyan flag as it moved through a heavy security escort towards Parliament.
Security arrangements around the convoy were tight, with a police motorcade accompanying the Treasury team as they headed into the precincts of Parliament for the 3.00 pm budget reading. Before stepping into the chamber, Mbadi briefly joined Treasury officials for a photo session.
During the moment, the officials appeared in matching blue suits, presenting a coordinated look ahead of the formal budget presentation. A red flower was pinned on Mbadi’s left lapel, adding a distinct touch to the otherwise uniform appearance.
He was also seen carrying the traditional black budget briefcase, a key feature of Kenya’s Budget Day tradition. The briefcase carried the national coat of arms and the word “Harambee,” symbolising its link to the country’s fiscal process.
This year’s arrival differed from the previous financial year, when Mbadi walked into Parliament for the 2025/2026 Budget reading, marking a change in the style of presentation and movement.
Inside the chamber, Mbadi is expected to present a Sh4.84 trillion Budget for the 2026/27 financial year, aimed at steering economic growth, job creation, and funding key government programmes.
Treasury figures show the government plans to collect Sh3.67 trillion in revenue. This includes Sh2.9 trillion from ordinary revenue, Sh644 billion from Appropriations in Aid, and Sh44 billion in grants.
The gap between revenue and spending stands at about Sh1.2 trillion, which will be financed through both domestic and external borrowing. Domestic borrowing is projected at nearly Sh1 trillion, while external borrowing is expected to contribute Sh148 billion.
The government also intends to settle pending bills amounting to Sh83 billion, a move expected to ease pressure on businesses and improve cash flow in the economy.
Key focus areas in the budget include education, infrastructure development, and economic empowerment programmes, as the government targets job creation and relief for households facing high living costs and unemployment pressures.