The National Assembly Departmental Committee has expressed reservations regarding a decision made by the State Department of Housing and Urban Development to adjust the construction cost of the new Githurai market in Kiambu by close to Kshs.200 million.

The Committee on Housing, Urban Planning, and Public Works, Chaired by Hon. Johana Ngeno (Emurua Dikirr), held discussions with Housing and Urban Development Principal Secretary, Mr. Charles Hinga where they sought explanation for the alteration of the project cost from the initial Sh827.170 million to Kshs1.026 billion.

"The variation in terms of costs is quite significant. You recently advertised the construction of 60 markets, and we are concerned that their costs may also be inflated. What justified the review of the costs?" asked  Hon. Ngeno.

In response, PS Hinga said that the increase in the construction cost of the modern market, featuring five storeys, is attributed to adjustments in the scope of work and design modifications during the project's implementation.

"As the project progressed, there were adaptations in the scope of work and design, leading to a review of costs," he explained.

According to the PS, these changes were essential to enhance the functionality, structural integrity, and visual appeal of the project, which was initiated in October 2019.

MPs Hon. Innocent Obiri (Bobasi) and Hon. Daniel Manduku (Nyaribari Masaba), responded to the PS's explanation, expressing concerns about the awarding of the contract without adhering to established professional procedures.

"The project site was a market with nearly 11,000 traders. Our officers encountered challenges in conducting site visits as expected due to the hostile environment," PS Hinga revealed, emphasizing that the project was initiated based on a directive from former President Uhuru Kenyatta.

Hon. Ngeno, asked the State Department to provide the Committee with the original Bill of Quantities, drawings, designs, and other pertinent documents related to the project.