Kirinyaga County Governor Anne Waiguru says the ward development funding model has greatly enhanced the implementation of development initiatives at the local level.
The model in which each ward is allocated funds for localized initiatives has seen residents benefit from economic empowerment projects identified by the local communities in collaboration with Members of the County Assembly (MCAs).
In the current financial year, Kirinyaga County allocated Sh440 million to be shared equally among the 20 wards that make up the county.
Waiguru said that having funds specifically dedicated to local projects is essential in that it empowers the local communities by allowing them to prioritize development projects that directly affect their daily lives and enabling the tailoring of projects to suit the unique needs in each ward.
Speaking in Inoi Ward, Kirinyaga Central, while distributing assorted socio-economic empowerment items to community groups, the Governor emphasized on the importance of undertaking community-driven projects since they benefit specific needs of a particular community.
She said that prioritization of projects is usually carried out through a rigorous public participation program by the county government, the model which improves accountability and transparency leading to more efficient implementation and sustainable development.
Some of the projects that the funds have supported include graveling of roads, supply of domestic and irrigation water, agriculture and entrepreneurship projects, as well as supporting self-help and welfare groups with assorted items such as tents and chairs.
Other wards have prioritized Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE), construction of health facilities, youth empowerment and sports talent development through distribution of sports kits to teams.
“You one among those who came up with initiatives to be funded by the kitty, we have put resources where you feel it is okay,” she asserted.
The county government has also supported 40 common interest groups from the wards to undertake projects such as tomato, avocado, dairy, chicken, fish, pigs, bee keeping and dairy goats.
Waiguru emphasized on continued collaboration between residents, county assembly and the executive for successful delivery of services.
By Mutai Kipngetich