The Controller of Budget (CoB), Dr. Margaret Nyakang’o, has raised concerns over the State Department for Public Works’ expenditure of Ksh1.34 billion during the first half of the 2024/2025 financial year, highlighting a lack of corresponding outputs.
Initially, the department was allocated Ksh5.01 billion, later revised to Ksh3.91 billion. These funds were intended for projects such as constructing new government buildings and pedestrian access paths.
Despite spending Ksh1.34 billion—comprising Ksh3.69 million (2%) from the development budget and Ksh1.34 billion (36%) from the recurrent budget—no tangible outputs were recorded by December 31, 2024. This raises questions about the utilization of the expended funds.
Specific targets, such as constructing footbridges, processing 20 term contracts, and inspecting 500 buildings, remained unachieved during this period.
Dr. Nyakang’o emphasized the need for continuous monitoring of budget implementation and adherence to results-based resource allocation to enhance service delivery.
This issue reflects broader concerns about inefficiencies in Kenya’s public service, with the International Labour Organisation ranking the sector 155th out of 189 countries in 2023.
The Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) has also highlighted challenges like inefficient service delivery and high operational costs due to difficulties in attracting and retaining specific skills within the public service.
With the government managing a wage bill exceeding Ksh1 trillion annually, there is growing pressure for reforms to ensure public funds lead to measurable improvements in service delivery.
Addressing these issues is crucial for restoring public confidence and ensuring effective use of taxpayer money.
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