Public participation forums for the 2026/2027 Annual Development Plan (ADP) in Kajiado County have been overshadowed by widespread complaints over stalled and substandard development projects, with residents demanding answers and accountability from county officials.
The forums, which began on October 1 in Kitengela and concluded on October 15 in Ongata Rongai and Nkaimurunya wards, drew sharp criticism from residents who questioned the status of projects listed as “ongoing” or “complete” in county records. In many cases, no work had commenced, while others were abandoned midway.
The forums were also overshadowed by a low turnout of residents; for instance, a record low turnout was recorded in Kajiado North during the public participation forums, with some venues nearly empty. In Ngong Ward, only two residents attended the session at the NG-CDF hall, while in Oloolua Ward, most of the 20 seats remained vacant.
At Nkoroi, representing Olkeri Ward, just one person showed up. Residents cited stalled projects, poor workmanship, and lack of transparency, especially the failure to provide bill of quantities (BQs), as reasons for their disengagement.
In Nkaimurunya and parts of Ongata Rongai, residents cited poor workmanship in road repairs, with contractors allegedly using black cotton soil instead of standard murram. Drainage systems were also left in disrepair, posing safety and flooding risks. Some residents questioned whether funds had actually been allocated for the projects, given that many were listed under the 2024/2025 financial year.
The County Assembly’s Finance Committee, led by Rombo Ward MCA Jackson Angaine, presided over the final forums at St. Mary’s Church. MCAs acknowledged the concerns and urged residents to report rogue contractors to the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC). “We must hold these individuals accountable. If you witness such behavior, report it to the EACC so that action can be taken,” said one MCA.
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The forums also exposed a pattern of contractors appearing only during project launches or public participation events, then abandoning sites until the next cycle. Residents described this as a deliberate tactic to evade scrutiny and called for tighter oversight.
Community members proposed the formation of a Community Oversight Committee to monitor project implementation and ensure transparency.
The forums have reignited calls for fiscal accountability and citizen-led monitoring, with residents demanding that future development plans reflect real progress, not just paperwork.
By Masaki Enock
