A section of the Kibera residence. [PHOTO/Courtesy]

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Public participation is having an open, accountable and structured process where citizens or people or a segment of a community can interact, exchange views and influence decision making. It is instilled in the national values and principles of governance stipulated in article 10.

Kibra residents have raised issues with the current dilapidated state of Woodley Grounds on one of the Facebook page referred to as "Kibera ni Kwetu". The field has a long history that dates back to early 1950's. 

Most of the youths have championed for Woodley commonly referred to as "Calix" facelift to enable the local soccer teams enjoy using it for home matches. A team like Black Stars is forced to use Camp Toyoyo in Jericho to play home matches where they are forced to part away with Ksh 10,000 in order to enjoy the field.

It is from the above background that I am appealing to Kibra residents to turn up in large numbers on February 1 this year to participate in the forum on Nairobi County fiscal strategy and medium-term framework budget that will be hosted at the same grounds. By participating, they will be able to push the county government to listen to their plea and be included in renovating the stadium.

The soccer teams need to ensure they are well represented on issues touching on sports and youth talents. Even if it means drafting a document to be presented to the county government, the time is now.

Kibra residents should not wait any further but take advantage of any given opportunity to ensure their interests are factored in the budget of 2018-2019. The local Members of Country Assembly (5 of them) need to bring the residents together to ensure Kibra interest is considered.

Among other interests that the people of Kibra need to raise are: garbage collection, lack of recreational facilities mostly in the slum areas like Laini Saba, Lindi and Katwekera, as well as the high rates of unemployment among the youth.

Everyone must purpose to attend this public forum and speak out for appropriate action.