Latest report by Auditor General Nancy Gathungu has revealed widespread mismanagement of the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) projects across Kenya, with Embakasi North, Ruiru, and Rongai among the constituencies flagged for irregularities. The audit paints a grim picture of stalled projects, substandard construction, and questionable procurement practices, raising concerns about the effective use of public funds.
In Embakasi North, the report highlighted Ksh55 million allocated to five schools for laboratory construction, none of which had commenced. Additionally, primary and secondary school projects worth Ksh63.9 million were found to have implementation flaws, while irregular fund transfers involving Ksh104.7 million further compounded the issues. These findings underscore the need for stricter oversight and accountability in managing NG-CDF resources.
Ruiru constituency also came under scrutiny for its handling of emergency supplies. At Githunguri High School, Ksh400,000 was spent on desks, but the audit questioned the urgency of this expense, as no evidence of unforeseen need was provided. Such lapses in justification raise doubts about the transparency of procurement processes in the constituency.
In Rongai, the report exposed unsupported spending of Ksh2.5 million intended for classroom construction at Kamosop Secondary School. The school redirected Ksh180,000 meant for ceiling work to purchase lockers, but the audit found no receipt vouchers or inspection reports to confirm delivery. This lack of documentation casts serious doubt on the legitimacy of the expenditure.
The Auditor General’s findings are a wake-up call for constituencies across Kenya to address the systemic issues plaguing NG-CDF projects. Abandoned constructions, poor-quality works, and unverified expenditures not only waste public funds but also hinder the intended development goals of the fund.
By Grace Githinji
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