Westlands Constituency, Nairobi – May 6, 2025
The push to entrench the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) into the Constitution gained momentum today as over 600 residents of Westlands Constituency turned up for a public participation forum to air their views on the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill No. 4 of 2025.
The event, held at the Westlands Constituency offices in Kyuna, was presided over by local MP Hon. Tim Wanyonyi, who passionately explained the history and significance of the NG-CDF, tracing its origin back to the administration of the late President Mwai Kibaki in 2003.
He reminded residents that the fund was designed to bring development directly to the grassroots at a time when the national government’s centralised system left local communities neglected.
“This fund was created because before, development never reached the grassroots. Constituencies like Westlands would be forgotten. NG-CDF is about you — the people. It builds your schools, pays fees for your children, and improves your facilities. If it’s returned to the national government, you will suffer,” said Hon. Wanyonyi.
The proposed amendment seeks to secure NG-CDF against future legal challenges and to increase its allocation from 2.5% to 5% of the national revenue, enabling more bursary awards, infrastructure projects, and social programs targeting youth, women, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and vulnerable families.
Residents, among them youth, women, single mothers, and community leaders, shared moving testimonies about the positive impact NG-CDF has had in their lives.
Phenny Achieng’ from Gachie recounted how NG-CDF funded the construction of a modern dormitory at Hospital Hill High School, replacing a dilapidated and overcrowded facility.
Jemimah Auma from Kibagare credited the fund for supporting her children’s education through bursaries, while Paul Kware, a youth leader, praised NG-CDF for upgrading public schools and enabling young people to pursue higher education.
Speakers also called for the enhancement of NGAAF — a fund that supports women’s economic empowerment — and the introduction of a Senate Oversight Fund to enable Senators to effectively monitor county government projects and curb misuse of devolved funds.
Aromba Mwando, a resident, summed up the mood by stating: “This fund belongs to the people. It has changed our lives. We used to have muddy classrooms, but now we have modern facilities and bursaries. It should be protected in the Constitution.”
The Westlands meeting is one of many being held across the country as Parliament gathers public views before the Bill is tabled for debate.
Hon. Wanyonyi urged even more residents to participate in the next forum scheduled for Wednesday, affirming that the people’s voice would be instrumental in shaping the future of NG-CDF and grassroots development .
End.