The Equalisation Fund Board has come under scrutiny for reportedly financing development projects that fall outside its remit.
While appearing before the National Assembly Finance and National Planning Committee on Wednesday, July 16, the MPs expressed concerns over the fund's the misuse of billions of shillings meant for the provision of water, roads, health facilities, and electricity in marginalised areas. Intended to bridge the development gap by improving the quality of basic services in marginalised areas to the level comparable to the rest of the nation, the Equalisation Fund is meant to address priority needs like food insecurity, health, water, sanitation, as well as electricity and energy needs by funding short-term projects on the same.
However, the committee found that the fund had financed projects like laying of cabros on pavements, street lighting, staff housing, and kitchen renovations rather than focusing on the provision of basic services as enshrined in its mandate.
Members of the National Assembly during a vote to entrench the NG-CDF, NGAAF, and Senate Oversight Fund into the Constitution on July 1, 2025.
