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Mombasa senator calls for proper use of ward development funds

Mombasa Senator Mohamed Faki. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)

By Farhiya Hussein | Sunday, February 25, 2024

Senator Mohamed faki also noted that it is necessary to quickly address the issue of constituency and ward boundaries.

Mombasa Senator Mohamed Faki is pushing for the allocation and utilisation of ward development funds, underscoring the persistent lack of progress in area wards due to political conflicts between the county governments and ward representatives.

He pointed out that the discord has resulted in the neglect of vital development projects, leaving communities underserved and infrastructure deficient.

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“We have seen how the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) has greatly helped in developing rural areas. We have also accepted the Senate Oversight Fund. It has managed to work effectively. Additionally, we would like to see the implementation of the ward development fund. So that every ward can have development funds from our county governments,” said Mohamed.

The senator stresses the importance of overcoming these political hurdles to prioritise the needs of constituents and ensure equitable development across Mombasa.

He advocated for increased collaboration and dialogue between stakeholders to foster effective governance and address the pressing issues facing local communities.

Mohamed noted several wards do not receive development funds because of political turfs.

The lawmaker also noted that it is necessary to quickly address the issue of constituency and ward boundaries.

“Because this constitutional issue should have been addressed before the last census. But due to government and political disputes, this matter could not be addressed, but now, it must be addressed so that we see the deserving areas get more representation, and assurance in county and national assemblies,” he said.

At the same time, Mohamed proposed for equal male and female numbers in both houses (National and Senate) noting this could be one of the ways the two-thirds gender rule can be realised.

“This issue has been lingering for some time. Last year, we tried almost thrice, but this issue could not be resolved. And I agree that grassroots people like bunges must have a say in resolving this matter," he said.

"This issue of women empowerment...our sisters should have the opportunity to participate in leadership. Going forward, it will be even more difficult for our sisters to enter elected leadership. Because, every day we see how those involved manipulate others. Either it is party leaders or those who control these positions. They use unconstitutional means to prevent others from accessing leadership.”