Westlands, Nairobi — May 5, 2025
The push to enshrine the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) into Kenya’s Constitution received overwhelming backing today from Westlands residents, as hundreds gathered for the first day of public participation on the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill No.4 of 2025.
The forum, held at the Westlands NG-CDF offices in Kyuna, attracted more than 500 residents, community leaders, and interest groups, all eager to have their say on a bill that could fundamentally shape the future of constituency-level development.
Speaking at the event, Westlands MP Hon. Tim Wanyonyi emphasized the need to protect NG-CDF, NGAAF, and the Senate Oversight Fund from recurring legal battles by anchoring them in the Constitution.
“For over 20 years, NG-CDF has brought development directly to the people — building schools, improving security infrastructure, and supporting education through bursaries and scholarships,” Hon. Wanyonyi said. “This is not a personal fund for MPs, but a people’s fund, and we must protect it.”
The MP further proposed a review of the fund’s allocation from the current 2.5% to 5% of the national revenue to expand its impact, particularly in education and social services.
Personal Testimonies Underscore the Fund’s Impact
Residents seized the opportunity to share heartfelt experiences about how NG-CDF has transformed their lives and communities.
Victor Otieno, a beneficiary, narrated how the fund enabled him and his four siblings to complete their education, while Agnes Malesi lauded the fund for establishing new secondary schools in Westlands, including Kabete Vet Lab, Loresho, Farasi Lane, and North Highridge.
Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) also voiced their support, with Rachael Afundi describing how NG-CDF and NGAAF have supported PWD families through bursaries, business grants, and assistive devices.
“Removing NG-CDF would be like taking away our only accessible and responsive development resource,” one resident, Phanice Njeka, remarked.
The proposed bill comes amid renewed debate over the constitutional positioning of development funds. Past court rulings have challenged NG-CDF’s legality, citing conflicts with the 2010 Constitution’s devolved governance structure. Proponents argue that formal entrenchment would eliminate such conflicts while safeguarding development at the grassroots.
“We can’t allow a few to keep running to court over this fund when millions depend on it,” said Hon. Wanyonyi.
The public participation exercise continues through Thursday, May 8, 2025, at the Westlands NG-CDF offices. Constituents have until June 10, 2025, to submit memoranda and views on the proposed bill.
The outcomes of these public forums will be consolidated and presented to Parliament as part of the bill’s stakeholder consultations.