Sirisia Member of Parliament, Hon. John Waluke, on Monday led hundreds of residents in a public participation forum aimed at collecting views on the proposed constitutional amendment to entrench the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF), National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), and Senate Oversight Fund into the Constitution of Kenya.
The event, held at the Sirisia NG-CDF offices, brought together residents from the three wards of the constituency – Namwela, Lwandanyi, and Malakisi/South Kulisiru – who voiced overwhelming support for the entrenchment of the three funds.
Hon. Waluke emphasised the critical role these funds play in community development, education, women’s empowerment, and legislative oversight.
“These funds have been instrumental in transforming our communities, building schools, sponsoring bright students from poor backgrounds, and empowering women and youth,” said Waluke.
“It is therefore important that they be protected constitutionally to ensure future generations benefit.”
From Namwela Ward, Mary Wekesa, a community health volunteer, said the NGAAF had enabled many women to start small businesses and improve their livelihoods.
“I have seen mothers who could not afford even a stall now running shops and paying school fees thanks to NGAAF. This amendment is necessary,” she said.
In Lwandanyi Ward, youth leader Brian Simiyu lauded the NG-CDF for supporting education and talent development.
“Without CDF bursaries, many of us would not have gone past Form Four. We urge Parliament to pass this amendment so that our children’s future is secured,” he remarked.
Malakisi/South Kulisiru resident, teacher Agnes Nasimiyu, added that the CDF had improved school infrastructure significantly.
“Before CDF, we taught under trees. Today, we have modern classrooms and even libraries. Embedding this in the Constitution ensures these gains aren’t lost,” she said.
Farmer John Barasa praised the Senate Oversight Fund proposal.
“Senators will now be able to effectively monitor how counties spend public funds. This will reduce wastage and corruption,” he said.
The residents submitted their views in writing, which will be forwarded to the relevant parliamentary committees for consideration.
The proposed amendment seeks to safeguard these funds from legal challenges and ensure their continuous operation under constitutional protection.
The event ended with a call for unity and continued civic engagement, as Hon. Waluke urged other constituencies to also participate actively in shaping the future of the country.
