Audit Exposes Kilifi County’s Missed Opportunity: Sh220M Climate Funds Left Unspent

Kilifi County hasn’t utilized over Sh219 million allocated under the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) program. This funding, aimed at enhancing climate resilience in local communities, was received two years ago but remains untouched.

FLLoCA is a government initiative designed to empower county governments and local communities. It helps them plan, execute, and monitor climate-related projects. The program is backed by the World Bank and other partners, managed through the National Treasury with input from local governments.

In the fiscal year 2023-2024, funding amounting to Sh10.51 billion was distributed among 46 counties, excluding Nairobi and Mombasa. These funds are a mix of contributions from the World Bank, KfW development bank, and local county budgets. However, audits have raised concerns about project costs and community engagement.

Recently, a social audit highlighted issues in four counties: Busia, Kilifi, Makueni, and Nyandarua. It revealed inflated project costs, poor community involvement, and unmet delivery standards. For instance, a lightning arrester installed in Busia for Sh2.4 million was criticized by locals as overpriced.

Pauline Saris, a key FLLoCA representative, noted that the findings were discussed during a training session for media on climate advocacy. She emphasized that the funds are loans, not grants, meaning responsible management is crucial. “This money needs to be paid back. It’s vital we use it to truly benefit our communities,” she said.

In Kilifi, many projects are listed as ongoing, yet community members find no evidence of actual work being done. Robert Banda, the county’s FLLoCA vocal point, expressed frustration over misunderstandings within the county’s leadership that hinder project implementation. He pointed out that a recent borehole project was only just starting, despite being identified long ago.

Problems aren’t just limited to Kilifi. In Busia, under-delivered materials have been reported, where contractors delivered less than promised. Issues with engagement mechanisms also surfaced, as many grievances go unaddressed due to limited awareness and delays in response.

Historically, community engagement in such projects has fluctuated. In previous initiatives, local input was often insufficient. A recent survey found that many residents were dissatisfied with not being consulted during project planning. In Nyandarua, for example, despite appreciating new water tanks, locals wished they had been asked about their preference for boreholes instead.

Dr. Dan Adino from FLLoCA highlighted ongoing misuse of funds, despite existing oversight agencies. He stressed that effective collaboration with civil society is essential for ensuring proper resource allocation.

Overall, the findings underline a critical need for improved accountability and community involvement in climate action projects. Enhancing these aspects can not only ensure the success of current initiatives but also build a foundation for future endeavors that truly serve the needs of local populations.

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FLLoCA FundsClimate Resilience, Kilifi County, Misuse of Funds