Tetu MP Geoffrey Wandeto has come out strongly in support of the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF), terming it a key driver of development at the grassroots level.

Speaking during the unveiling of a memorial cross for the late Archbishop Amos Kabuthu at AIPCA Ihithe in Tetu, Nyeri County, Mr Wandeto emphasized the critical role the fund has played in transforming lives across the country.

“As lawmakers, we are committed to anchoring the NG-CDF into law to shield it from persistent court litigations. This fund has become an anchor for local development and a lifeline for many needy Kenyans,” Mr Wandeto said.

Citing examples from his constituency, the legislator noted that over 12,000 needy learners in Tetu had benefited from bursaries through the fund this year alone.

“In Tetu, the NG-CDF has enabled us to construct classrooms and laboratories in 45 of our 65 Junior Secondary Schools. This has greatly eased the transition to the Competency-Based Curriculum,” he added.

Wandeto further highlighted the fund’s role in infrastructure and skills development.

He revealed that 1,000 households had been connected to electricity through NG-CDF projects, while major renovations and equipping of local Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions had been achieved using the same funding.

“In addition, we are currently constructing an ultra-modern Information and Communication Technology (ICT) hub for youth at Wamagana trading centre, under the Ajira Digital Programme,” he said.

The MP warned that abolishing the fund would create a vacuum in development efforts, forcing citizens to rely solely on the national government for interventions that NG-CDF currently facilitates with speed and efficiency.

“If this kitty is scrapped, we, as citizens, will be left begging the national government for development projects. The NG-CDF does not undermine devolution in any way—it complements it by entrenching tangible development at the grassroots,” he stated.

The legislator lauded the fund’s structure, noting that it has mechanisms in place to ensure equitable and transparent disbursement of bursaries and other resources.

“Members of Parliament have managed bursary schemes for years. We have developed efficient systems and structures for this work. Rather than dismantle what is working, we should build on it and adopt the best practices from it,” he noted.

He also urged the public to actively engage in the ongoing countrywide public participation forums initiated by Parliament, which are aimed at amending the Constitution to entrench the NG-CDF.

“This is a crucial moment for us as a nation. Let us all take part in the public participation forums that began on Monday. The voice of every citizen matters as we push to secure this fund constitutionally,” he said.

The NG-CDF has in recent years faced legal challenges questioning its constitutionality, particularly in relation to the principles of separation of powers and devolution.

However, many MPs and stakeholders argue that the fund plays a vital role in equalizing development, particularly in marginalized and underserved areas.

Mr Wandeto’s remarks reflect growing concern among legislators and citizens who have witnessed the positive impact of NG-CDF on the ground and are advocating for its formal protection through constitutional means.

As the debate on the future of the NG-CDF continues, Parliament is expected to consider proposals that would not only secure its legal standing but also enhance its accountability and efficiency.