The Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education chaired by Hon. Wanami Wamboka (Bumula) continued its oversight of public universities, scrutinizing financial management practices and compliance with constitutional requirements on diversity and inclusion.
Appearing before the Committee, the management of Mama Ngina University College was questioned over discrepancies linked to the joint-universities project of a construction of an administration block and lecture theatre. Initially contracted at KSh 450 million, the project drew an audit query after records indicated the final cost had risen to KSh 471 million.
Legislators also noted inconsistencies in project funding records, with Government data indicating KSh 635.8 million disbursed while handover records show the institution received KSh 395.5 million, leaving a variance requiring clarification.
The matter is further linked to an inter-institutional arrangement with Kenyatta University, where KU recorded KSh 163.1 million payable to the college while the college did not recognise the amount in its records. Both institutions will appear before the Committee on 20 March 2026 with all relevant documentation, including contract agreements and financial records.
Members also raised concern over the management of Murang’a University of Technology, noting that the institution had numerous unresolved audit queries which management struggled to adequately explain.
These included missing travel documentation such as boarding passes and incomplete records relating to the procurement of a university bus. The Vice Chancellor was further asked to explain why a personal surcharge of KSh 500,000 had not been settled.
The Committee also directed the university to resolve a pending query on long-term investments valued at over KSh 25 million tied to shares registered under trustees of the former Murang’a Technical College. They were further instructed to address land encroachment affecting 18 parcels of land oit of their total 30.95HA.
Meanwhile, Kirinyaga University was urged to address gaps in ethnic diversity within its workforce and strengthen inclusion of persons living with disabilities.
Members applauded the management of Karatina University for demonstrating strong governance and sound institutional management. The Committee commended the university for maintaining high standards and encouraged the institution to continue upholding best practices.
By Anthony Solly
