The National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Blue Economy, Water, and Irrigation concluded its Budget deliberations with the State Department for Water and Sanitation led by Cabinet Secretary (CS), Hon. Alice Wahome and her Principal Secretary (PS) Dr. Kipronoh Ronoh.

The Committee led by Hon. Kangogo Bowen (Marakwet East) questioned the CS on the Kenya Water Institute’s (KEWI) financial discrepancies. Members noted that Kshs125 million was disbursed to the Institution but only Kshs60 million was recorded in the Budget Estimates.

Members stated that the institution has a significant history of producing diligent water engineers and should uphold its reputation. “KEWI needs to be audited. It is one of the best institutions but its future is in jeopardy,” said Hon. Nzengu. 

In her response, CS Wahome explained to the Committee that the Ministry is trying to put into place measures to curb the adversity.

Hon. Bowen proposed that the Ministry re-allocate funds to stalled projects in order to complete them instead of having a lot of projects that are either not being funded or are new. 

“If a project is not being funded, remove it from the list. Give money to projects that are nearing completion", said Mr. Bowen. 

The Chair asked the Ministry to be strategic in their operations and management of projects since water is a crucial component that is required across the country.