Enhancing community participation in monitoring public funds a case study of Umoja ward

Abstract

The Purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of community participation in development and monitoring the use of Public Funds. The study also shows the impact of community participation or lack of it, on community development. Literature Review and studies indicate the benefits of community participation in monitoring funds. It is imperative for Kenyans to understand the forces at work within their respective communities in order to enhance community participation in order to achieve sustainable development. This Study also seeks to determine ways of enhancing community participation III development and monitoring the use of public funds. The study outlines the importance of community participation in development and monitoring the use of funds. It also outlines the ways in which the community can participate in such monitoring. The Study seeks to identify the nexus between community participation and sustainable development. Where community participation is lacking, the study identifys the effect of that state of affairs on community development and management• of public funds . The following Specific Objectives guided the Study: • To create awareness and public education on the existence of the Community Development Fund and The Local Authority Transfer Fund • To create consciousness, critical awareness and understanding of major contemporary problems, in this case, embezzlement and misuse of public funds. • To enable the community accomplish more with their limited resources • To provide many opportunities of educating and enlightening people on the importance of monitoring the use of public funds The study is descriptive in nature and employs the survey method of primary data collection. The main instrument for data collection is the questionnaire. The study was conducted among a sample of 4 (four) estates residents of Umoja Ward. The respondents are full time residents of Umoja Ward and drawn from young to old residents within each household. Data was analyzed using the SPSS soft ware and findings presented logically in tables, graphs and Pie charts.