NAIROBI, Kenya – The Ministry of Interior is under scrutiny for failing to complete eight development projects despite spending Sh833.65 million, raising concerns over mismanagement and lack of value for money.
In a report, Auditor-General Nancy Gathungu revealed that the stalled projects, originally allocated Sh1.156 billion, have only reached completion rates ranging between 41% and 80%, yet funds continue to be spent.
Stalled Projects and Rising Costs
Among the unfinished projects is the Migori District Headquarters (Phase I), which began in 2009 with a budget of Sh701.5 million but remains incomplete despite consuming Sh539 million.
Other flagged projects include:
- Tinderet Sub-County Headquarters – Sh49 million allocated, Sh30 million spent.
- Nandi South Sub-County Headquarters – Sh48.5 million allocated, Sh30 million spent.
- Bunyala DCC’s Office – Sh47 million allocated, Sh30 million spent.
- Tigania East DCC’s Office – Sh75.59 million allocated, Sh73.1 million spent.
- Igembe North DCC’s Office – Sh28.2 million allocated, Sh25.4 million spent.
- Magunga District Headquarters – Sh8.5 million allocated, Sh3.58 million spent.
- KSAL 100-Person Hostel Block – Sh198.1 million allocated, Sh102.4 million spent.
Despite the significant expenditures, construction remains incomplete, raising questions about accountability and whether taxpayers are getting value for their money.
Missing Land Records and Ownership Disputes
The Auditor-General also flagged major gaps in the ministry’s land ownership records, revealing that key government buildings—including Harambee House and Nyayo House—do not appear in the State Department’s official land register.
Additionally, the report highlights that the ministry lacks ownership documents for 4,151 parcels of land across the country.
While the State Department claims it is working to acquire title deeds, no evidence has been provided to demonstrate progress.
Some parcels also lack proper survey plans, complicating boundary demarcation.
“In the circumstances, the existence of an effective control system to safeguard the State Department’s land could not be confirmed,” the Auditor-General warned.
