Ugenya MP David Ochieng addresses a meeting convened in Ukwala to issue bursaries and collect views on entrenching the NG-CDF on May 19, 2025./HANDOUT
Ugenya MP David Ochieng on Monday spearheaded a forum to issue bursaries in his constituency and collect views on entrenching National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) in the Constitution.
The event, held at Ukwala Ward, brought together residents from all four wards of the constituency:
The well-attended forum underscored the significance of
grassroots involvement in shaping policies that directly affect their
development and livelihoods.
Addressing the gathering, Ochieng explained the urgency of the matter, citing recent court rulings that declared the NG-CDF unconstitutional.
“Members of Parliament have been taken to court for contravening the Public Finance Management Act and performing functions meant for county governments, contrary to Section 93 of the Constitution,” he said
He emphasised that unless a constitutional amendment is enacted, the NG-CDF will lapse by June 2026, potentially halting development projects that have become lifelines for many communities.
“The NG-CDF has done a lot for this constituency, from building classrooms, bursaries for needy students to road maintenance. It would be a great loss if we let this fund die,” said the MP.
Sentiments from residents reflected overwhelming support for anchoring the fund in the Constitution.
From Ukwala Ward, a teacher, praised the fund’s role in reviving dilapidated school infrastructure.
“Before NG-CDF, we had schools with no proper classrooms. Now our children can learn in decent conditions,” she said.
West Ugenya resident leader called for the fund to be safeguarded permanently.
“This fund empowers women and youth through projects. It’s not just about infrastructure,” she noted.
NG-CDF is a Kenyan government initiative that allocates a portion of the national budget to constituencies for development projects.
The fund aims to promote equitable socio-economic development across the country.
Public views and engagement are important components of the NG CDF process, particularly when it comes to the amendment of the NG CDF Act and project identification.
Parliament is conducting a public participation drive to entrench three major funds in the Constitution.
They include the NG-CDF, the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), and the proposed Senate Oversight Fund.
