Thursday, 3 July, 2025
Public Investments Commitee on governance and education questions TVETS over audit concerns
Bunge Towers, Parliament Buildings Wednesday, July 2, 2025
The Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education, chaired by Hon. Jack Wanami Wamboka (Bumula), has intensified oversight of public technical institutions. The committee has been engaging various TVETs to review audit reports, governance practices, and public funds management.
Among the institutions questioned today included Mawego National Polytechnic, Keroka TVC, Siaya Institute of Technology, Kaimosi Friends National Polytechnic, and Riat Institute of Advanced Technology. Each faced questions about staffing gaps, procurement procedures, and financial accountability.
During the meeting with Mawego National Polytechnic, MPs raised concerns over ethnic imbalance in hiring, urging Principal Dr. J. Abuto to comply fully with the law. The committee also noted issues of understaffing and directed the management to address them urgently.
Keroka TVC came under sharp scrutiny after the committee discovered irregularities in board payment records. Some members had signed attendance lists despite only attending meetings virtually, and there were noticeable differences in signatures. Principal Mr. Benard Obobe struggled to provide clear explanations, casting doubt on his leadership.
The committee directed Keroka’s management to submit full documentation, including payment vouchers, cheques, and details of the payment formula for board members. Questions were also raised over why the institution has yet to secure a title deed, with instructions to follow up with the Attorney General’s office.
At Siaya Institute of Technology, the committee questioned why the management replaced an expensive ERP system after just one and a half years. Principal Daniel Randa explained that the system was inefficient, but the committee requested all procurement documents to justify the decision.
The committee also noted stalled construction projects at the institution. It supported the use of local university students to help complete these projects and encouraged management to continue this cost-effective approach.
Kaimosi Friends National Polytechnic, led by Dr. Okumu J.W. Odhiambo, was asked to explain why it raised funds beyond its approved budget. The committee also highlighted regional imbalance in staffing and directed the management to correct this within two years.
It was also revealed that the institution had operated without insurance for some time. Although management said the issue had been resolved, auditors were asked to confirm this. The committee further ordered a fresh audit of the 2023/2024 accounts for clarity and transparency.
At Riat Institute of Advanced Technology, only two officers appeared for the audit session, which limited the committee’s work. The chair directed the clerk to reschedule the meeting so that all relevant officers can attend and respond to audit questions.
The committee emphasised the need for transparency, fair hiring, and responsible financial management in all public institutions. MPs made it clear that such audits are meant to protect taxpayers’ money and strengthen public trust in these institutions.