Welcome to Nairobi Eastern Central Regional Budget Hub
The NEC Regional Budget Hub is a collaborative platform that operates in the Nairobi-Eastern-Central (NEC) regions of Kenya
About NEC Regional Budget hub
About
In 2022, Bajeti Hub established the Nairobi, Eastern, and Central region budget hub(NEC Hub) which consists of 14 counties namely: Murang’a, Nyeri, Laikipia, Nairobi, Machakos, Meru, Tharaka Nithi, Kajiado, Kitui, and Kiambu, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Makueni and Embu with Justice, Advocacy and Empowerment Center (JAEC) currently being the financial host and coordinating organization for the Hub activities. The coordination and hosting role played by JAEC is an indicator of a central and organized approach that facilitates meaningful engagement with national and county governments.
NEC Hub has been focusing on social protection, health, and education sectors which were informed by identified gaps during budget advocacy for the past 2 years. This is being achieved through a collaborative approach where each budget facilitator is working with at least 15 budget champions already trained in the 14 counties.
NEC Hub has also incubated two Hubs; The Media Hub and Disability Mainstreaming Hub. The Disability Mainstreaming hub consists of Persons with Disabilities advocates championing specific issues related to disabilities in each of the 14 counties. The Media Hub consists of media practitioners drawn from the 14conties interested in reporting public budget stories.
Mission
To unite advocates for public finance management across 14 Kenyan counties, championing transparency and accountability in budgeting to ensure inclusivity and equity in funding for social protection, health, and education, while empowering Persons with Disabilities to drive inclusive budgeting and advocate for essential legislative amendments.
Vision
To be a catalyst for sustainable development and empowerment in the region, where equitable resource allocation and inclusive participation in budgeting processes enhance the well-being of all communities, including persons with disabilities.
Latest News
9th June, 2026
NEC Regional hub Countries shine at the County budget transparency survey (CBTS) 2025 awards
The Nairobi Eastern Central Regional Hub (NEC Hub) has recently celebrated the remarkable achievements of its member Counties at the recently concluded County Budget Transparency Survey (CBTS) 2025 Awards, organized by Bajeti Hub.
The awards recognize counties that have demonstrated excellence in budget transparency, timely publication of public finance documents, and the provision of comprehensive budget information to citizens. NEC Hub member counties emerged among the top performers nationally, collectively securing an impressive 12 awards, reaffirming the region’s commitment to promoting open governance, accountability, and citizen participation in public finance management.
The awards recognize counties that have demonstrated excellence in budget transparency, timely publication of public finance documents, and the provision of comprehensive budget information to citizens. NEC Hub member counties emerged among the top performers nationally, collectively securing an impressive 12 awards, reaffirming the region’s commitment to promoting open governance, accountability, and citizen participation in public finance management.
Makueni County Leads the Way with Five Awards
- Most Transparent County Overall – 89 points
- Timeliness Award
- Most Comprehensive County Fiscal Strategy Paper (CFSP)
- Most Comprehensive Finance Act
- Most Comprehensive Budget Implementation Report
Nyeri County Secures Four Awards
Nyeri County demonstrated exceptional performance by receiving four awards:
- 2nd Most Transparent County Overall – 88 points
- Timeliness Award (Tied with Makueni County)
- Most Comprehensive Annual Development Plan (ADP)
- Most Comprehensive County Budget Review and Outlook Paper (CBROP)
Other Outstanding Performers
Machakos County
- Most Comprehensive County Budget Review and Outlook Paper (CBROP) – Tied with Nyeri County
Nyandarua County
- Most Comprehensive Finance Act – Tied with Kiambu County
Kiambu County
- Most Comprehensive Finance Act – Tied with Nyandarua County
Strengthening Transparency and Citizen Engagement
These achievements highlight the growing commitment by counties within the NEC Hub region to strengthen transparency, improve access to budget information, and uphold principles of accountable governance.
While these awards are a significant milestone, they also serve as a call to action for citizens. Access to budget information is only meaningful when citizens actively engage with it. We encourage residents across the region to review county budget documents, participate in public forums, ask informed questions, and contribute to shaping development priorities in their communities.
9th June, 2026
Historic Milestone for Inclusive Public Participation in Kajiado County
Kajiado County has marked a significant milestone in advancing inclusive governance and citizen participation during the public participation forums for the Draft Programme Based Budget (PBB).
This achievement was made possible through the dedicated advocacy efforts of the Kajiado team, led by Budget Facilitator Sosthen Eugine Simiyu, Budget Champion Uside Masambu, and a committed network of budget champions who championed the inclusion of all citizens in the budget-making process.
For the first time, the county deployed a professional sign language interpreter during the public participation forum, creating an accessible platform for members of the Deaf community to actively engage, express their priorities, and submit their views on the county budget. This groundbreaking step ensured that the voices of persons with hearing disabilities were heard and considered in decisions that directly affect their lives and communities.
County officials acknowledged the forum as the most inclusive public participation exercise ever conducted in Kajiado County, demonstrating a growing commitment to ensuring that no citizen is left behind in governance and development processes.
The success of this initiative was made possible through the collaboration of various stakeholders, including the Nominated MCA, the county sign language interpreter, and the budget champions whose efforts strengthened social accountability and citizen engagement.
This milestone serves as a powerful example of how intentional actions can break barriers to participation and promote equitable representation in public decision-making. By embracing inclusivity, Kajiado County has set a commendable precedent for other counties seeking to enhance meaningful citizen participation in governance and public finance management.
We celebrate the Kajiado team and all stakeholders who contributed to this achievement and reaffirm our commitment to promoting inclusive governance, social accountability, and citizen-centered budgeting across all our areas of engagement.
9th June, 2026
The Launch of the County Budget Transparency Survey (CBTS) 2025
On 4th June 2026, Nairobi Eastern Central Regional Budget Hub (NEC Hub) proudly joined civil society organizations, county government leaders, public finance management (PFM) practitioners, and development partners at the official launch of the County Budget Transparency Survey (CBTS) 2025, convened by Bajeti Hub.
The launch marked an important milestone in advancing transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in county budgeting processes across Kenya. NEC Hub remains committed to promoting effective public finance management, strengthening social accountability mechanisms, and enhancing meaningful citizen engagement in governance.
The event celebrated outstanding performers such as Makueni County, which scored 89 points, and Nyeri County, which scored 88 points, demonstrating strong commitment to openness, public access to budget information, and citizen participation in financial decision-making.
Beyond recognizing success stories, the survey also shed light on challenges affecting counties facing transparency bottlenecks. These findings offer an opportunity for stakeholders to identify practical solutions, strengthen accountability systems, and promote more inclusive budgeting processes that respond to citizens’ needs and priorities.
NEC Hub acknowledges and appreciates the dedication of county governments, budget facilitators, budget champions, civil society partners, and County Systems Think-Tanks who work tirelessly to transform data and evidence into meaningful civic action.
Following the launch, NEC Hub will embark on a comprehensive county-by-county analysis of the survey findings to support localized budget advocacy initiatives and foster greater public engagement in public resource management.
4th June, 2026
County Systems Think Tank (CSTT) launched in Kitui County
NEC Hub officially launched the County Systems Think Tank on Gender-Based Violence (CSTT-GBV) in Kitui County, marking a significant step toward strengthening county-led efforts to prevent and respond to Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
The inaugural meeting was held at the Kitui Multipurpose Boardroom and was coordinated by NEC Hub’s Kitui County Budget Facilitator, Faith Kiema, with support from Bajeti Hub. The forum brought together a diverse group of stakeholders committed to advancing survivor-centered GBV interventions and strengthening accountability within county systems.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders, which included NEC-Hub Coordinator Nelson Maina, National Police Service, State Department for Gender, Kitui County Government, The Ministry of Health, Kitui County Disability Network (KCDN), NCCK, KWETU-Net, legal experts, youth & women representatives and budget champions.
The County Systems Think Tank on GBV aims to foster collaboration among key actors and support the development of sustainable, coordinated, and survivor-centered systems capable of effectively addressing GBV challenges in Kitui County by 2028.
During the meeting, stakeholders identified several strategic priorities that will guide the Think Tank’s work:
- Harmonizing GBV data & rolling out the upcoming County GBV Data Dashboard.
- Pushing for the draft SGBV Bill.
- Operationalizing the Ikutha Rescue Centre & upgrading Kitui Level Four Hospital to meet GBVRC standards.
- Setting up a toll-free helpline and a rescue vehicle.
- Using budget advocacy and Gender-Responsive Budgeting to secure funding via the Budget & Appropriations Committee.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of public participation and evidence-based advocacy in shaping county priorities. Stakeholders discussed opportunities to utilize findings from the upcoming County Budget Transparency Survey (CBTS) 2025 to strengthen accountability, transparency, and resource allocation for GBV prevention and response initiatives.
Together, we are charting a clear roadmap to ensure county systems truly work for survivors and lasting change.
29th May, 2026
County Systems Think Tank (CSTT) launched in Meru County
On 29th May 2026, a significant milestone was achieved in advancing fiscal accountability, data-driven advocacy, and inclusive public participation following the official launch of the County Systems Think Tank (CSTT) in Meru County.
The launch brought together key regional budget practitioners and civil society leaders committed to strengthening decentralized governance and promoting transparent, citizen-centered development processes within the county.
The successful coordination and organization of the launch was made possible through the tireless efforts and dedication of Meru County Budget Facilitator, Kendi Muthomi, whose commitment played a critical role in ensuring the success of the engagement.
The strategic meeting provided an important platform for stakeholders to deliberate on collaborative approaches towards strengthening public finance management, civic engagement, and accountability mechanisms at the county level.
The launch was attended by NEC Hub Coordinator, Mwalimu Nelson Maina, alongside esteemed partners including Anunsiata Nabwire Oyula, Mount Kenya Regional Associate at Health NGOs Network (HENNET), among other civil society and governance actors dedicated to strengthening governance systems and public participation processes.
To reinforce collaboration and partnership with the county government, the team paid a courtesy call to the Meru County Government Health Director’s Office where they engaged with Dr. Titus Mutura.
The engagement laid a strong foundation for future collaboration aimed at ensuring county budget implementation processes align with strengthened public health commitments and improved service delivery for the people of Meru County.
The launch of the CSTT in Meru County represents an important step towards enhancing civic empowerment, strengthening accountability structures, and promoting meaningful citizen participation in governance and development planning.
We extend our sincere appreciation to all stakeholders, partners, and participants who contributed towards making the launch a great success as we continue working together to advance transparent, inclusive, and accountable governance systems.
29th May, 2026
County Systems Think-Tank (CSTT) in Murang'a
On Monday, 25th May 2026, the Nairobi Central and Eastern Regional Hub (NEC Hub) convened the County Systems Think-Tank (CSTT) meeting in Murang’a County, bringing together key stakeholders from the Murang’a County Government Executive, representatives from the County Assembly of Murang’a, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), budget facilitators, and champions.
The high-level engagement focused on deliberating the institutionalization of a robust Public Participation Legal Framework aimed at strengthening inclusive governance, accountability, and citizen engagement across the county.
Aligned with the 2025 County Public Participation Guidelines, the collaborative session explored several strategic priority areas including:
- Strengthening the legal and policy framework for public participation and civic education;
- Enhancing institutional coordination and synergy for citizen engagement across all county departments;
- Budget allocation and operationalization of effective public participation mechanisms;
- Deepening collaboration between the county government, non-state actors, and regional hub stakeholders.
A key highlight of the discussions was the exploration of innovative digital solutions to enhance citizen participation. Stakeholders discussed the potential of the My Murang’a App as a transformative platform for expanding access to public participation opportunities and bringing governance processes closer to citizens.
The integration of digital platforms into governance systems was recognized as an important step towards improving transparency, accessibility, and civic engagement across the county.
As NEC Hub, we remain committed to fostering multi-sectoral collaborations that advance inclusive governance, strengthen accountability, and promote sustainable community development while ensuring that no one is left behind.
The engagement further emphasized the importance of strengthening public participation processes from the county level to the grassroots in order to promote meaningful citizen involvement in decision-making and development planning processes.
7th February, 2026
CHARTING THE PATH FOR 2026-2028
Our team, led by our coordinator Mwalimu Nelson Maina ( Nelson WA Chapter Six ), Regina Mwangi Murang‘a County Budget Facilitator, and Mary Mureithi Laikipia County Budget Facilitator joined fellow regional Budget Hubs in a high-impact, four-day strategic session organized by Bajeti Hub.
As part of the five regional hubs, NECHUB is committed to sharpening our approach to public finance management.
The team was capacity built to:-
- Understand the changing political sphere to stay ahead.
- Align our 2026-2028 goals with a shared national vision.
7th February, 2026
Strengthening Fiscal Transparency in Laikipia County
We are thrilled to celebrate a highly successful engagement between Bajeti Hub, Nairobi Eastern Central Regional Budget Hub – NEC Hub, County Government of Laikipia‘s Treasury Department and Laikipia County CSO Forum (LACCSOF).
On Friday, January 30th, stakeholders gathered in Laikipia County for a critical “deep dive” into the Draft County Fiscal Strategy Paper (CFSP) and the Debt Management Strategy Paper (DMSP).
7th February, 2026
NYSWG DIALOGUE WITH THE GOVERNOR ON MENTAL HEALTH IN NYERI COUNTY
On 22nd January 2026, youths from NYSWG held a dialogue with H.E. the Governor to discuss the implementation status of the County Mental Health Action Plan. The engagement focused on reviewing progress made, identifying gaps in mental health service delivery and financing and exploring ways to improve access to youth-friendly and community-based mental health services in regards to the Nyeri County Mental Health Costed Plan (2023-2027)
7th February, 2026
FROM POLICY TO YOUTH MEANINGFUL PARTICIPATION
Nyeri Youth Sector Working Group (NYSWG) conducted a targeted capacity-building session with members of the Mizizi Youth Network, convened by Cifcad Kenya, aimed at strengthening youth preparedness for effective participation in county planning and budgeting processes, particularly the County Fiscal Strategy Paper (CFSP) public participation.
The session focused on three key areas:
28th October, 2025
The Auditor General Reports
This crucial session empowered citizens, advocates, and policymakers by demystifying the intricate world of Audit Reports, specifically those by the Auditor General. Understanding these documents was a crucial step toward effective oversight, budget advocacy, and holding county governments accountable for the delivery of services and the prudent use of public resources.
Mary Mureithi, Assistant Programs Associate at Pathways Policy Institute and Budget Facilitator for Laikipia County and who was the facilitator of the day, delivered a masterclass breakdown on navigating these critical accountability tools.
18th October, 2025
UNLOCKING COUNTY FINANCES
In this essential training, we dive deep into the world of Quarterly Budget Implementation Reports (QBIRs), a vital tool for tracking how counties actually use public funds and holding them accountable for results on the ground.
Christopher Kuria, Nyandarua County Budget Facilitator and Executive Director, Action for Community Development Centre took the participants through an insightful breakdown of this critical public finance document.
18th October, 2025
Understanding the Finance Bill
This is a crucial session that empowers citizens, advocates and policymakers by demystifying the intricate world of key budget documents. Understanding these documents is the first step towards effective budget advocacy and holding county governments accountable for service delivery.
Anita Nkirote, the facilitator and co-founder of the Chogoria Education Forum and Tharaka Nithi County Budget Facilitator, breaks down the masterclass as follows.
10th October, 2025
UNDERSTANDING THE BUDGET ESTIMATES PROGRAMME BASED BUDGET PBB
This is Session 5 of the flagship NEC Hub’s Budget Champions Graduation Program! This is a crucial step in our 8-part series designed to empower you to become an advocate for fiscal transparency and effective county service delivery. In the session we demystify the most important document in the county budget cycle: The Budget Estimates, specifically the Program Based Budget (PBB)
29th September, 2025
This is Virtual Session 4 of the Nairobi Eastern and Central Regional Budget Hub (NECHUB) Budget Champions Training Program 2025. In this crucial session, we demystify the County Fiscal Strategy Paper (CFSP)—the core document that dictates the size and priorities of your county’s annual budget. Our expert Christopher Kuria, Executive Director of the Action for Community Development Center and Nyandarua County Budget Facilitator, breaks down this essential piece of Kenya’s public finance system.
22nd September, 2025
County Budget Review & Outlook Paper (CBROP) Unpacked | NECHUB Webinar with Mary Mureithi (Tharaka Nithi County Budget Facilitator )
This is the third impactful session of Nairobi, Eastern and Central Regional Budget Hub (NECHUB)’s Budget Champion Graduation Program 2025! In this essential webinar, Mary Mureithi, Laikipia County’s Budget Facilitator and Assistant Programs Associate at Pathways Policy Institute, meticulously unbundles and unpacks the County Budget Review & Outlook Paper (CBROP). Mary guides participants through critical areas including:-
UNDERSTANDING THE ANNUAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN (ADP)
Nairobi Eastern and Central Regional Budget Hub (NECHUB) presents an insightful breakdown of the Annual Development Plan (ADP) — a critical document in the county budget process. The ADP is a yearly planning tool that identifies priority projects and programs derived from the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP). It acts as a blueprint for what your county government will prioritize and fund in the upcoming financial year. Eugene Sosthene Simiyu, Budget Facilitator – Kajiado County, guides us through the purpose, structure and importance of the ADP.
11th September, 2025
A Vow for Peace and Progress
The County Government of Kajiado had a remarkable youth engagement on peace during the public participation meeting for Kajiado’s Annual Development Plan 2026/27.
It was incredible to see so many young people step up and voice their aspirations for a better, more peaceful future.
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