Matayos: Residents of Matayos and Butula constituencies have voiced their support for the entrenchment of the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF), National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), and Senate Oversight Fund into the constitution. This call was made during a public participation forum held at the Matayos Constituency Office.
According to Kenya News Agency, the forum saw residents, led by Dismas Wanzala from Bukhayo West Ward, emphasize the importance of constitutional entrenchment for these funds to ensure continued development. Wanzala noted the significant impact of NG-CDF, particularly in financing educational projects and providing bursaries, which have facilitated school developments and increased access to education.
Grace Odera from Burumba Ward highlighted the benefits women have gained through NG-CDF and NGAAF initiatives, including business grants and educational bursaries. She stated that these funds have empowered local women, reducing the financial burden of school fees and enhancing their economic capabilities.
John Makokha from Matayos South Ward stressed the role of NG-CDF in improving security infrastructure, noting the construction of police posts and administrative offices, which have brought services closer to residents and enhanced security in the area.
In Butula Constituency, residents echoed similar sentiments, citing the transformative effects of NG-CDF on local infrastructure. Vincent Ochanda from Lugulu Ward pointed out that NG-CDF has facilitated electricity connections to many homes, enabling youths to start businesses and improving overall security and livelihoods.
Matayos MP Geofrey Odanga underscored the developmental strides made possible by NG-CDF and criticized county governments for their ineffective use of allocated funds. He advocated for the constitutional entrenchment of NG-CDF, NGAAF, and the Senate Oversight Fund to ensure continued development and empowerment initiatives. Odanga emphasized the direct economic impact of NGAAF grants and called for enhanced accountability and oversight by senators in county governance.
The public participation forums are part of a nationwide initiative across all 290 constituencies, led by respective area MPs, following a high court ruling that declared the funds unconstitutional.