A four-storey building at Mutumbu Comprehensive School, funded by the National Government Constituency Development Fund (CDF). Residents of Gem Constituency are demanding transparency in the construction. Photo by Odhiambo Odhiambo. 
By Odhiambo Odhiambo
Residents of Gem Constituency are demanding greater transparency in the construction of a four-storey building at Mutumbu Comprehensive School, funded by the National Government Constituency Development Fund (CDF).
The project, valued at approximately Sh28–30 million, has raised concerns among locals who say they have little information on its cost, tendering process, or timeline.
In a petition addressed to their area Member of Parliament, Elisha Odhiambo, a local group, Voice of Gem (Duond Jo Gem), emphasized the need for a Transparency Board at the construction site.
“We, the people of Gem, fully support the construction going on at Mutumbu Comprehensive School, but we demand that a Transparency Board be put up at the site,” the petition reads.
The petitioners stressed that under the law, all government-funded construction projects must display project information boards detailing cost, scope, timeline, and implementing entities.
According to them, these boards are vital for promoting transparency, accountability, and public participation, as well as enhancing oversight and monitoring.
The petition has given MP Odhiambo seven days to respond, warning that failure to act may trigger public protests. “We will mobilize the community if this issue is not addressed promptly,” it states.
John Ogam, chairman of the Gem CDF, said he was not aware of the project’s cost. “You may have to seek further details from the Funds Manager or the head of the school,” Ogam remarked, adding, “What interests do you have in Gem to inquire about local projects?”
Confirming the project’s existence, Gem Yala Deputy County Commissioner Evans Moses Otieno estimated the cost at about Sh30 million. He reiterated that public participation is mandatory in all government projects and invited residents for consultations, pledging to engage CDF officials over the concerns raised.
MP Odhiambo defended the project, asserting that it is “done within the stipulated requirements.” Meanwhile, a CDF office staff member clarified that the building is a one-storey structure consisting of 11 classrooms and five offices, costing Sh28 million.
Amid the concerns, residents have petitioned the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the National Construction Authority (NCA) to investigate alleged conflicts of interest, compliance with the Public Procurement and Disposal Act, and adherence to NCA regulations.
