Uphold integrity in constituency funds: EACC urges NG-CDF managers
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13:03:2026: The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has urged managers of the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) to uphold integrity and accountability, warning that misuse of devolved funds could undermine grassroots development and erode public trust.
Speaking in Nakuru at a forum for NG-CDF managers from 33 constituencies in Kakamega, Bungoma, and Busia counties on Thursday, EACC Chief Executive Officer Abdi Mohamud said proper management of devolved funds is critical to accelerating local development and ensuring national priorities reflect community needs. The remarks were delivered on his behalf by the Commission’s Western Regional Office Manager, Mr. Eric Ngumbi, during a workshop attended by over 350 officials.
The forum also featured a presentation by EACC Deputy Director for Finance and Planning, Charles Rasugu, on “Fostering Integrity and Accountability in the Management of NG-CDF in Kenya”, emphasizing practical measures for ensuring transparency and proper oversight of devolved resources.
“The NG-CDF embodies the principle of devolution, translating national aspirations into investments in roads, schools, health facilities, water systems, and other community projects,” the CEO said. He added that well-managed funds promote equitable development, support poverty eradication, improve education, and enhance the quality of life for ordinary citizens.
However, the EACC noted that reports have exposed instances of misuse, including awarding contracts through proxy companies, procurement fraud, kickbacks, extortion, embezzlement, payments for ghost projects, bursaries to non-existent students, duplicated payments, and inflated project costs.
“While devolved funds have transformed communities, some individuals view them as vehicles for self-enrichment,” Mr. Mohamud said. The Commission has opened 67 investigations into NG-CDF-related corruption, currently at various stages of the criminal justice process.
The CEO cited a case under investigation where a private contractor was irregularly awarded 49 tenders worth Sh66 million across NG-CDF committees and the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) in 11 counties over two financial years, reiterating that beyond investigations, the EACC is intensifying efforts to recover assets, monitor projects, combat bribery, and prevent corruption.
He reminded NG-CDF managers and committee members that they are the guardians of public confidence.
“As the people in the driving seat, every project you approve and every payment you authorize affects families, schools, clinics, and roads. Carry this responsibility with dedication to the public good,” he said, urging citizens to engage with oversight mechanisms and hold leaders accountable.
