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The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has ramped up efforts to safeguard Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) grants in Siaya County, placing communities at the heart of oversight to curb misuse and enhance accountability.
Speaking during a high-level public engagement forum at Awelo Chief’s Camp in Siaya Township Ward, EACC officials underscored the urgency of protecting climate funds intended to strengthen grassroots resilience and improve livelihoods.
The multi-stakeholder forum brought together national and county government officials, Ward Climate Change Planning Committees, Project Management Committees (PMCs), beneficiaries, and residents. At the core of discussions were transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in climate project implementation.
County Executive Committee Member for Water, Environment, Climate Change, Irrigation and Natural Resources, Prof. Jacqueline Oduol, emphasized that FLLoCA funds must deliver tangible impact at the community level.
“These funds are meant to transform lives. Every shilling must be accounted for, and communities must take an active role in monitoring projects,” she said.
Chief Officer for Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources, Jared Abayo, revealed that at least 380 beneficiaries have already gained from the initiative. He highlighted youth engagement as a key pillar, noting that participants under the Siaya Youth Young Generation Alliance developed 14 project proposals, later narrowed down to two viable submissions.
EACC Deputy Director Dr. Susan Kinyeki disclosed that the Commission has introduced robust systems to eliminate ghost workers and seal accountability loopholes in county projects.
“We are working closely with all stakeholders to ensure integrity in public resource management. Oversight mechanisms are being strengthened to prevent leakages,” she stated.
From the national government, Margaret Namu of the State Department of Devolution stressed the importance of collaboration, affirming continued technical support and capacity building for counties implementing climate action programs.
EACC legal officer Derrick Kaisha issued a stern warning against private interests hijacking public projects. He urged residents to actively participate in procurement and project monitoring processes, adding that translating service charters into local languages would enhance inclusivity, especially for persons living with disabilities.
Residents seized the public participation session to raise concerns over inflated bills of quantities, access to government information, and the progress of corruption cases involving county officials.
In response, officials assured the public that project cost details must be openly shared for scrutiny, while updates on corruption cases remain accessible عبر official government platforms.
The forum concluded with a strong call to action: communities must remain vigilant and report corruption confidentially, ensuring that climate funds deliver real impact where it matters most.
As climate financing continues to expand, Siaya is emerging as a test case for how community-driven oversight can protect public resources and accelerate sustainable development.
