Effectiveness of Monitoring and Evaluation of CDF Projects in Kenya. A case of Ainamoi Constituency

Abstract

Constituency Development Fund (CDF) came into existence in Kenya after the National Rainbow Coalition (NARC) came to power with the enactment of CDF Act in 2003 but amended in 2007. The CDF forms one of the devolved funds channeled by central government. The CDF is aimed at spurring development in the constituencies. Over the last ten years (2003 œ 2012), various development have been achieved although there is continuous outcry from stakeholders on the management of the projects funded by CDF and this is blamed on ineffective monitoring and evaluation framework conducted by Constituency Development Fund Committee (CDFC). This paper looks at the effectiveness of monitoring and evaluation process on CDF projects in Ainamoi constituency, Kenya. A case study research design methodology is used where the target population comprises of CDFC members, selected constituents, Project Management Committee (PMC), and District Development Officer (DDO). The results of the study show that PMC, CDFC and external assessors are involved in monitoring and evaluation of projects with minimal participation of constituents. It was also evident that most of the recommendations from M and E were utililised with the responsibility of utilisation of M and E result being under the CDF office. The study recommends that frequent and holistic involvement of all stakeholders affected by projects funded by CDF need to be involved and ensure that the recommendations made from M and E report need to be utilised to the fullest.