The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) stands accused of overpaying a contractor for incomplete projects.
Cementers Construction Company reportedly received Sh687 million for unfinished roads and unfinished bridges. The projects had an initial budget of Sh892 million.
These allegations have drawn the attention of Parliament. The National Assembly’s Public Investments Committee on Transport and Infrastructure is leading a probe into the matter.
Pokot South MP David Pkosing, who chairs the committee, has vowed to uncover the truth behind the suspected misuse of public funds.
Overpayment of Half-Finished Projects Expose KURA to Scrutiny
Documents show that half of the work awarded in the 2018/2019 financial year remains incomplete.
The committee questioned the contractor hired to upgrade Shreeji Road, build walkways and drains, and expand the bridges on Likoni and Enterprise Roads about the payment.
“Why did they pay Sh687 million when so much is undone? This reeks of irregularities,” said Committee Chair David Pkosing.
Auditor General reports reveal that as of February 2023, key tasks—including the Likoni and Enterprise Road bridges—remained incomplete.
The contractors completed only the earthworks on Shreeji Road and did not submit any design drawings for the Enterprise bridge.
The project’s revised deadline of April 8, 2023, now seems unrealistic. “This undermines value for money,” the audit noted.
Contractor Blames Challenges, Seeks Exit
KURA Director General Silas Kinoti told lawmakers the contractor wants to terminate the deal due to unforeseen issues.
Kinoti blamed delays on changes by Kenya Railways Corporation, which altered lane widths from 5.1 meters to 7 meters. The contractor also cited inflation as making the project unaffordable.
“The project stalled in 2021, and now they want mutual termination,” Kinoti said.
Lawmakers Demand Answers
MPs questioned why the contractor had overpaid and abandoned the project before completion.
“Why is the contractor trying to terminate the contract when most of the work is done?” asked Kiambu Town MP John Machua.
Aldai MP Marianne Kitany called for accountability, pointing to severe traffic jams caused by the stalled projects on Likoni and Enterprise Roads.
“These delays are worsening congestion. KURA, KRC, and the contractor must provide records explaining the hold-up,” Kitany said.
Auditor General Ordered to Investigate
The committee directed the Auditor General to assess if taxpayers got value for money from the project.
“Submit the contractor’s CR-12 form for review. Everyone involved, including the contractor, must face scrutiny. No one is exempt,” said Committee Chair David Pkosing.
The committee will hold further meetings with KURA, KRC, and the contractor to address the issues and push for project completion.