National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has defended the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF), emphasising its critical contribution to progressive development at both the grassroots and national levels, despite calls from some quarters for its abolition.
Speaking on Friday during the official launch of a newly constructed tuition block at St. Veronica Ranje R.C. Comprehensive School in Kanduyi Constituency, Wetang’ula, who was the chief guest, said the fund had, over the past two decades, transformed the education sector by providing dignified learning spaces and improving the delivery of quality education.
“NG-CDF has been a game-changer. When I first entered Parliament, it did not exist, but since its introduction, it has funded projects that have significantly changed the lives of our people. Even after I retired as a Member of Parliament, it remained in place and it is still here today,” he said.
The Speaker noted that although the courts had at one time declared the fund unconstitutional, Parliament amended the law to firmly anchor it within the Constitution.
He hailed the Court of Appeal for upholding its legality, describing the decision as a victory for grassroots development.
“Prudent use of public funds is best demonstrated through NG-CDF projects. Across the country, if you walk into any village, the most visible projects, be they classrooms, laboratories, or health facilities, have been funded through NG-CDF,” Wetang’ula said.
The new block at St. Veronica Ranje R.C. Comprehensive School comprises 12 modern classrooms and fully equipped administration offices.
Wetang’ula commended Kanduyi NG-CDF for investing in infrastructure that supports both learners and teachers.
“When we took a Bill to entrench NG-CDF in the Constitution, it received 90 per cent approval in Parliament. This is because Kenyans everywhere recognise its impact and value,” he added.
Kanduyi MP John Makali, who was the host, lauded the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF), saying its projects remain the most visible form of grassroots development compared to those initiated by county governments.
Makali said the fund has consistently delivered tangible benefits to communities, particularly in the education sector.
“Unlike many county projects, NG-CDF investments are evident across the country from classrooms and laboratories to health facilities. It is a model of development that people can see and appreciate,” he said.
Webuye East MP Martin Pepela echoed the sentiments, praising the prudent utilisation of the fund to improve the lives of learners.
He criticised those pushing for the fund’s abolition or transfer to county governments, saying such proposals were out of touch with the realities on the ground.
