Youth Life Executive Director Michael Nkosi has called for strengthened transparency and accountability in the administration of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), saying that while the fund holds great promise for young people, its current implementation raises serious concerns.
Speaking during a stakeholder engagement, Mr. Nkosi said Youth Life is advocating for equitable opportunities for young people, particularly in economic empowerment, skills development, and mentorship. He noted that the CDF has the potential to be a “game changer” if managed effectively.
“An empowered youth becomes a strong voice in governance. People can only speak out when they are economically empowered,” Mr. Nkosi said.
He explained that Youth Life works to ensure that young people access skills, business opportunities, and leadership mentorship. However, he said administrative weaknesses and political influence within the CDF system undermine its intended impact.
“We have mixed feelings regarding CDF. On one hand, we want it to be increased because we see its potential. But increasing the funds without addressing administrative challenges is like giving a gun to someone who doesn’t know how to use it it becomes dangerous,” he said.
Mr. Nkosi highlighted that some channels of the CDF appear to have been abused, and accountability remains a key concern for stakeholders, especially youth-led organizations monitoring projects at community level.
He added that although communities are encouraged to identify priority projects, the final projects implemented often differ from what residents request.
“You will find that figures are announced as released and communities are told their projects will be implemented, but what is executed is something completely different,” he observed.
Mr. Nkosi also raised concerns about inflated project costs, noting that the community has practical experience in construction and understands realistic pricing.
“A standard 1x3 classroom block should cost between K1.8 million and K2 million. So why should a similar project cost three times more? As a community, we have built these structures before, and we know the actual cost,” he said.
Youth Life said it has engaged government agencies, including those under the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Local Government. However, Mr. Nkosi noted that political influence though not always visible still affects decisions and dilutes community recommendations.
“Our role as Youth Life is to raise these flags and ensure that communities are part and parcel of the monitoring process. CDF must work for the people, especially the youth,” he emphasized.
Mr. Nkosi called for reforms that strengthen administrative structures, enhance transparency, and safeguard public resources to ensure the CDF fulfills its promise of improving livelihoods and empowering young people at community level.
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