Government Spokesperson Hon. Sen. (Dr) Isaac Mwaura
Government Dismisses Finance Bill Claims, Highlights Key Gains in Agriculture, Health, and Education
NAIROBI, April 14
The Government has dismissed widespread online claims regarding the 2025 Finance Bill, stating that no such bill has been drafted or tabled in Parliament. Speaking at KICC, Government Spokesperson Hon. Sen. (Dr) Isaac Mwaura emphasized that the Budget Process is still ongoing and that Kenyans will be fully involved through public participation once the draft budget is released after April 30.
Dr Mwaura reiterated that the Governmentβs focus is on tax policy and administrative reformsβnot increasing taxes, contrary to public speculation.
On agriculture, the Government announced success under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA Plan), with Guaranteed Minimum Returns now stabilizing farmersβ incomes. Notable gains include a jump in macadamia prices from KES 24 to KES 100 per kilo, coffee from KES 50 to KES 130, and milk from KES 37 to KES 50 per litre.
In the health sector, the spokesperson hailed progress under the new universal health coverage scheme, Taifa Care. Registered beneficiaries have risen to 19 million from 8 million under the former NHIF. The scheme now offers expanded oncology coverage and improved ICU rates, easing the financial burden on Kenyan families.
Turning to disease outbreaks, the government confirmed ongoing interventions to manage a Kala-azar outbreak in Wajir, where 600 people have been affected. A swift response, including mobile labs and a satellite blood bank has boosted recovery rates. Meanwhile, cholera outbreaks in Nairobi, Kisumu, and Migori have led to the activation of Rapid Response Teams and sensitization campaigns.
In education, Dr. Mwaura addressed recent controversies, including the disruption of a student play at the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival. He stressed the importance of adherence to approved regulations and warned school principals against unlawfully withholding exam certificates. The Ministry of Education has been directed to act firmly against defaulters.
Finally, on the rising cases of femicide, the Government pledged decisive action. A technical working group is reviewing laws and planning public forums across all counties. Kenya has also signed the African Union Convention on Eliminating Violence Against Women and Girls to strengthen its stance.
βThe Government remains committed to sound governance, transparency, and safeguarding the rights and welfare of all Kenyans,β Dr. Mwaura concluded.
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