Kilifi County Governor Gideon Mung’aro has cancelled contracts for all stalled county projects, citing delays by contractors, and announced a new plan to have the projects implemented through direct community participation by residents’ committees.
Speaking to the media at his residence in Kilifi town, Mung’aro said the move is aimed at curbing rising debts and preventing wastage of public funds on incomplete projects.
“We have terminated contracts for projects that have stalled because contractors have taken too long to implement them,” the Governor said. “Small contracts such as construction of ECDE classrooms, technical colleges, dispensaries, wells and even organisation of county events will now be handled by local committees.”
He explained that funds for the projects will be disbursed directly to the respective project locations, with residents tasked with overseeing implementation.
“This approach allows wananchi to supervise projects in their areas, reduce inefficiency by contractors and stop the loss of public money through abandoned works,” Mung’aro said.
The Governor further announced the appointment of Alice Kinywa to chair a special committee mandated to investigate and verify pending debts owed by the county government.
“The committee will scrutinise all claims and make recommendations on the county’s debt status, which will enhance accountability and transparency in project implementation,” he noted.
Mung’aro said the committee has been given 40 days to complete its investigation, adding that no contractor will be paid during the review period.
“No payments will be made to contractors until the committee concludes its work. We must first establish the legitimacy of the claims,” he said.
The Governor expressed confidence that the new measures will accelerate project implementation, enhance local ownership, create jobs, ensure economic benefits remain in the communities and improve transparency and accountability in county operations.
By Stephen Mrira
