The West Kwaio Constituency Development Committee (CDC) Sub-Committee held a crucial meeting on Monday, 22 December 2025, at the Busi’i Claudius Teifi House area to address delays and challenges surrounding constituency project applications for 2025.
The meeting, attended by Ward Development Committee (WDC) Sub-Committee members from across the constituency, was officially opened with a prayer, followed by welcoming remarks to the Constituency Project Officer (CPO).
Key addresses and presentations were delivered by the Member of Parliament for West Kwaio Constituency, Hon. Claudius Teifi, CDC Chairman Walter Maesugea, and CPO David Nguaiburi.
Legal and Representative Meeting
CDC Chairman Walter Maesugea confirmed that the meeting was legally constituted for CDC Sub-Committee members, noting that West Kwaio Constituency has four CDC Sub-Committees: Ward 26, Ward 27, Ward 28 Zone One, and Ward 28 Zone Two.
Each sub-committee comprises 12 members tasked with assisting the CDC and communicating decisions and information back to their respective communities.
“We cannot reach all 132 communities in the constituency,” Maesugea said. “That responsibility rests with the Sub-Committees, who must ensure information from the constituency office and CDC is clearly communicated to the people.”
Nearly 4,000 Applications Received
In his presentation, Maesugea revealed that a total of 3,788 application forms were submitted through the WDC Sub-Committees, with a combined project value of SBD 40,813,500.00.
The applications reflect strong community participation but far exceed the constituency’s estimated budget.
“This data gives us clarity on the real needs and expectations of our people,” he said.
“However, all applications must be validated by the Sub-Committees to ensure they are genuine and realistic.”
He acknowledged that the meeting was held later than expected, as the constituency had originally planned to deliver project outcomes by November or December 2025.
Reasons for Delay Explained
CPO David Nguaiburi addressed concerns over delays in the delivery of materials and project implementation, explaining that West Kwaio’s large population—more than 8,000 registered voters—creates added pressure compared to smaller constituencies.
He also noted that many application forms contained errors and inflated costings, contributing to delays while data verification and costing reviews were carried out.
“Some applications alone pushed the total close to 40 million dollars,” Nguaiburi said.
Hon. Claudius Teifi further clarified that the application forms were issued by the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD), not the constituency office, and delays at the national level had affected timely submission and processing.
Community Concerns Raised
During the question-and-answer session, community member Iro raised concerns about the rushed nature of application form completion and urged the CDC to avoid repeating the same approach in future years.
Others called on CDC members to visit communities directly to explain the reasons behind the delays.
In response, Nguaiburi acknowledged the importance of community consultation but said outreach depended on time and logistical constraints.
Learning for the Future
Hon. Teifi described the situation as a “learning mistake” and warned that similar delays could affect 2026 and 2027 if changes are not made.
He outlined two possible options: cutting project costs to fit the 2025 budget or returning application forms to Sub-Committees for reassessment with applicants.
“What we are seeing now is beyond our estimated budget,” the MP said.
“We must be realistic and correct this now so we can move forward properly.”
The meeting concluded with closing remarks from the MP and the West Kwaio Constituency accountant, followed by a closing prayer, as Sub-Committee members were urged to return to their communities and relay accurate information on the current status of constituency projects.
By Lesley Foinagwa
MASI Stringer
