Kiambu Governor Enacts Laws for Ward Development Fund and Supplementary Budget
KIAMBU – Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi has officially signed into law two critical bills passed by the County Assembly, marking a significant step towards enhancing development and service delivery within the county. The newly signed legislations include the Kiambu County Appropriation Act, 2024 (Supplementary Budget), and the Kiambu County Revenue Allocation Act, 2024 (Ward Fund).
According to Kenya News Agency, the Kiambu County Supplementary Appropriation Act, 2024, authorizes an additional Sh2.5 billion in spending for priority projects, sourced from the Exchequer. Meanwhile, the Kiambu County Revenue Allocation Act, 2024, earmarks an initial Sh600 million for the Ward Fund, aimed at fostering development initiatives at the grassroots level.
Governor Wamatangi expressed his appreciation for the County Assembly’s role in passing the legislation, highlighting the significance of these laws in implementing the administration’s inaugural budget. He emphasized that the laws would invigorate his development agenda, focusing on key areas of intervention. The Ward Fund, in particular, is expected to democratize the development process by involving Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) and residents in identifying priority projects.
The Governor further explained that the Ward Fund is designed to ensure equitable distribution of county resources, with each ward receiving a minimum of Sh10 million annually for resident-approved projects. This approach aims to empower local communities in decision-making, promising to transform the landscape of local development.
Riabai MCA Hezron Gachui, in conversation with KNA, welcomed the allocation but noted the need for further refinement of the legislation. Gachui argued that the current Sh10 million per ward represents only 2.8 percent of Kiambu County’s budget, which he considers insufficient for comprehensive development. He advocated for an increase in the fund’s allocation and suggested quarterly disbursements to enable continuous project initiation across wards.