The government, through the National Treasury, has officially launched the implementation of 1,236 projects valued at Sh8.1 billion.
These projects will be funded under the Equalisation Fund and are aimed at ensuring that essential services reach approximately six million Kenyans living in marginalised areas. The projects will be spread across 34 counties, covering 366 wards and 111 constituencies.
The announcement was made during the launch event held at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC), with the Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi gracing the occasion. The projects mark a significant step towards improving service delivery in some of Kenya’s most underserved regions.
Mudavadi highlighted the progress already made, noting that 359 projects have been completed under the Equalisation Fund, benefiting over nine million Kenyans across 14 counties initially identified as marginalized. Of the completed projects, 265 are fully operational and ready for handover.
“The Equalisation Fund is a key initiative in our mission to ensure that all Kenyans, regardless of their location, have access to the same basic services,” said Mudavadi. “I am convinced, and I believe all Kenyans share this conviction, that the spirit behind the Equalisation Fund is to enable marginalised areas to enjoy high-impact projects, now and for generations to come, just like all other citizens.”
The new projects will see the construction of critical infrastructure, including 115 classrooms, 177 boreholes equipped to provide clean water, 41 water pans, and 176 health facilities, 53 of which will be fully equipped to serve local communities.
These projects reflect the government’s commitment to “Bottom-Up” development approach, ensuring that resources are allocated in line with the needs of local communities.
National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the Equalisation Fund, stating that Sh900 million had already been disbursed since his appointment at the National Treasury.
He assured that all future requisitions from implementing partners, including county governments, would be funded and that a clear plan had been drawn up to address arrears associated with the Equalisation Fund.
“We acknowledge that there have been challenges, including the tight fiscal space that has hindered the full allocation of funds to the Equalisation Fund. However, we are committed to clearing the arrears and ensuring the smooth implementation of these vital projects,” said Mbadi.
He further emphasised that the Equalisation Fund showcases the successful collaboration between the national and county governments, reaffirming the importance of devolution in ensuring equitable development across all regions.
The launch of these projects is a testament to the Government’s ongoing commitment to advancing social and economic equality and ensuring that no Kenyan is left behind in the country’s development agenda.
By Joseph Ng’ang’a
