The second day of public participation on the proposed Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill No. 4 of 2025, which aims to entrench the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) into the Constitution, was met with overwhelming support from residents of Westlands Constituency. The forum, held at the Westlands Constituency offices in Kyuna, saw an impressive turnout, as community members voiced their unwavering endorsement for the bill.
Hon. Tim Wanyonyi, the Member of Parliament for Westlands, addressed the gathering, reflecting on the importance of NG-CDF since its inception in 2003. Created under President Mwai Kibaki’s leadership, the fund was designed to decentralize development and direct resources to the grassroots. “NG-CDF was created to build schools, improve local infrastructure, and provide educational support for your children,” Wanyonyi explained. He warned against any moves to return the management of the fund to the central government, emphasizing the risk of depriving ordinary citizens of essential development.
Residents shared heartfelt testimonials about how NG-CDF has transformed their communities. Phenny Achieng, a Gachie resident, praised the replacement of a dilapidated dormitory at Hospital Hill High School with a modern facility. “NG-CDF has been a blessing,” Achieng said, adding, “We fully support this bill.” Other residents echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the fund’s positive impact on school infrastructure, bursaries for needy students, and the construction of new classrooms to accommodate the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
Single mothers like Evelynn from Kitisuru and youth leaders such as Paul Kware from Gikambura also expressed their gratitude for the NG-CDF’s contribution to education and community development. “As a single mother, NG-CDF gave my children an education,” Evelynn shared, reinforcing the necessity of securing the fund.
The session saw the active participation of over 600 residents, all eager to safeguard the future of NG-CDF. Hon. Wanyonyi urged residents to participate in even greater numbers during the final day of public participation, scheduled for Wednesday, to ensure that their voices are heard in securing the fund’s future for generations to come.
