Dignitaries and stakeholders on Wednesday gathered in Nairobi to discuss the way forward for Ethical Fundraising for Makueni County.
Peter Minnang, Director General for ICRAF, Africa and also a facilitator in the forum, insisted on documentation of facts which is a great milestone in looking for an able partner.
"We have worked in Makueni for the last 3 years in giant programmes and I know we are one of the engaging partners. Today, this forum is a good proof," said Peter.
Peter encouraged the County to put more emphasis on gender and youth-based programmes because they are more viable and can easily attract partners.
Janet Mawiyoo a consultant with a Galvanising agency who was a key speaker during the High-level meeting said that the sustainability of any project is very key and needs a serious strategy.
According to Janet, the sustainability of any project revolves around the close engagement of the community.
"The people are in the driver's seat. Development has to be pushed from below.," said Janet.
She emphasized that success brings more success and that's why when a good demonstration is done on the utilisation of resources sourced from outside the County becomes attractive to other funders.
"When the right foundation is created, it will always end up with different funders because people go where there is something," added Janet.
Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jnr acknowledged the great role partners play in Economic development and maintaining sustainable development to improve the livelihoods of Makueni citizens.
He mentioned that there is a great urge to mobilise yet another Sh49bn with the development partners to meet the resources gap in the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP).
"We have a big funding for 2023/2027. Figure Sh93bn is required. Sh39bn (42% of total budget) needs donor funding," he posed.
The forum comprised of key partners in water, health, education, environment, agriculture and gender.
It was an open one with participants and the key speakers engaging in key development matters.