Security tops Mt Kenya wish list for MPs' fund

National Assembly plenary session in October 2022. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

Residents of Mt Kenya region have shared their views on the projects they would like their legislators to prioritise through the National Government- Constituency Development funds (NG-CDF).

The MPs who held public participation forums across their constituencies received memorandums and views on the key priority projects from locals. In most constituencies, different groups stated their views on what should be prioritized in the 2022/23 financial year.

Residents said they would want much of the NG-CDF fund directed to road construction, enhancing security, improving education and conservation of the environment. Many who participated in the forum in Mukurwe-ini Constituency said they will now benefit from the Government since they have aired their wishes.

On matters of security in Mukurwe-ini residents said they would wish for more officers deployed to existing police posts. In the education sector they requested for construction of classes and modern administration blocks and laboratories, provision of water tanks and electricity connection to both primary and secondary schools. On PWDs they wished for more friendly disability amenities and equipment installed in schools and public offices within the constituency.

Mukurweini MP John Kagucia said that the NG-CDF fund will be managed in a transparent manner.

"We have completed the two day exercise and I want to assure Mukurwe-ini residents that the fund will be spent wisely to end the problems they are facing as I promised during my campaigns, "he said

Tetu MP Geoffrey Wandeto stated, that views made by the constituents, would form the basis for proposals for funding. In Muranga, MPs said the public forums listing down priorities to be implemented by the fund. Among the key projects were bursary, improvement of class rooms and roads upgrading.

Kigumo MP Joseph Munyoro said the residents have listed a bursary for learners and construction of a new primary school at Kangari market. Munyoro said NG CDF will concentrate on improving schools as there are mud walled classrooms.

"Our people have a lot of interest in the public projects more so in education programmes," said Munyoro.

Kangema MP Peter Kihungi said more emphasis will be placed in junior secondary schools on construction of laboratories. In Mathioya, MP Edwin Mugo said the public is interested in renovation of classes, and construction of laboratories. In Othaya Constituency residents proposed that the fund be spent in purchasing lockers and chairs for the junior secondary classes.

They also proposed the establishment of tree nursery projects and support for youth talents. Othaya MP Michael Wambugu said he was keen on the proposals from the residents and will work to ensure that most are delivered before the end of the financial year.

In Nyeri Town Constituency locals suggested that there was a need for the area MP to drill more boreholes to end water shortages.

[Amos Kiarie, Lydiah Nyawira, Boniface Gikandi]