Analysis of challenges in implementing Constituency development fund project in Dowa Southeast and the Central Constituencies.

Abstract

There has been growing competition among the key players in the administration of CDF projects emanating from ineffective linkages between the decentralization policies, ineffective community participation due to lack of knowledge, persistent power struggles and conflicts of roles between the key players. The study therefore aimed at analyzing the challenges in the implementation of development projects under the CDF in Dowa South East and Dowa Central constituencies. The research design largely employed qualitative research method, key informant interviews and FGDs to be precise. The study discovered that, in most cases, MPs exert significant influence over project implementation procurement, project selection as well as prioritization and that key stakeholders are frequently sidelined. The study also noted that key players lack knowledge concerning CDF project implementation due to insufficient specialized training in CDF procedures, project management. The study discovered that despite the communities reporting irregularities in the implementation of CDF projects, there is minimal follow-up by the council, leading to a backlog of unresolved complaints resulting from the lack of grievance redress mechanisms. Based on the findings that the exert undue influence over project implementation, key stakeholders lack adequate training, the study therefore recommends that the role of the MP be re-evaluated, by reviewing constitutional laws that govern the MPs role, consultations with the local community as well as independent assessment by the civil society organizations, to ensure a more balanced approach to project implementation; specialized training be provided to the key players on CDF guidelines and project implementation; clear protocols for independent oversight be established in order to mitigate the undue influence of MPs on council officials and that a grievance redress mechanism should be integrated into the guidelines in order to address the complaints.