By F, KNA
The Public Investments Committee (PIC) on governance has raised concern over stalled multi-million shilling projects at Moi University questioning the management’s efficiency and prudent use of public funds.
Led by Chairperson Wanami Wamboka, the committee inspected incomplete projects at the institution, among them the Margaret Thatcher Library, student hostels, the proposed School of Science, a Digital Innovation Centre and a multi-purpose amphitheater that all remains below 40 percent incomplete stage.
Wamboka underscored the need for prudent project management, warning against resource wastage.
“The Committee notes with concern that the institution has many running projects that have all stalled, and we must emphasise the need to channel resources to complete one project before embarking on others since this leads to underutilization of public resources,” he stated.
Members expressed dismay at the deteriorating state of infrastructure, with Kuresoi Member of Parliament (MP) Joseph Tonui saying, “An institution is as good as its management, and from what we are seeing here today, the efficiency of Moi University management is very questionable.”
At the university’s main gate, which has been under construction for several years, MPs cited poor workmanship despite reports indicating a quoted bill of quantities of Sh7 million. Bomachoge Chache MP, Alfah Miruka, said the project appeared grossly inflated, noting that cracks were already visible before completion.
Other legislators questioned the university’s project priorities, with Lunga Lunga MP Chiforomodo Mangale arguing that essential facilities should have been completed before embarking on new developments.
The committee also toured occupied student hostels, where they observed dimly lit corridors and lack of basic safety measures, with Narok County Women Representative Rebecca Tonkei criticizing the management for neglecting simple but vital installations such as light bulbs and fire extinguishers.
In addition, the MPs inspected staff quarters, most of which remain vacant and in dire need of renovation, and urged the administration to restore the facilities to ensure a safe and habitable environment for both students and staff.
Responding to the concerns, Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Kiplagat Kotut assured the committee that plans were underway to revive stalled projects and improve existing facilities.
He appealed for parliamentary support to secure adequate budget allocations to help the university regain its lost glory.
The inspection visit by the parliamentary committee comes at a time when Moi University lecturers have vowed to continue with their strike, accusing the institution of failing to honor a return-to-work agreement signed last year after a three-month industrial strike.
