The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Although Parliament is currently on recess, several House committees have continued their activities.
This week, the Senate Public County Investments and Special Funds Committee summoned former Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu to discuss the financial records of the Kitui County Textile Centre (KICOTEC) for the fiscal years 2019/20, 2020/21, and 2021/22.
KICOTEC, the first garment factory set up by a county government, was created to generate employment, enhance youth skills, lower garment costs, and support the local service industry.
Governor Julius Malombe of Kitui appeared before the committee to address concerns about the centre’s financial performance and accountability.
The committee noted that the Auditor-General had issued negative opinions for KICOTEC’s financial years 2019/2020 and 2020/2021.
Committee chair Godfrey Osotsi announced, “In accordance with Article 125 of the Constitution and sections 18 and 20 of the Parliamentary (Powers and Privileges) Act, 2017, we are summoning former Governor Charity Ngilu, previous senior management officials, and all those who signed the financial statements of KICOTEC for the fiscal years 2019/2020, 2020/2021, and 2021/2022.”
Malombe was requested to provide various reports and information, including the centre’s status report, the Board of Directors’ details, and the bank account signatories.
The committee, led by Osotsi, also reviewed Auditor-General reports on Murang’a Municipality and Fort Beverage Industries Company Ltd.
Governor Kang’ata Appears Before the Committee
Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata addressed the committee regarding accountability issues within the county’s operations. The committee acknowledged progress in addressing earlier concerns about water companies but urged a resolution of issues related to Non-Revenue Water and the transfer of Murang’a South Water and Sanitation Company Limited from the national government.
Departmental Committee on Tourism and Wildlife
The Departmental Committee on Tourism and Wildlife, chaired by Maara MP Kareke Mbiuki, held a meeting with representatives from the Wildlife Research and Training Institute, the Tourism Fund, and the Kenya International Convention Centre (KICC).
Mbiuki emphasized the need for innovation, strategic planning, and accountability to ensure the tourism sector’s success. He highlighted Kenya’s vast tourism potential and stressed the importance of maximizing the benefits for both the economy and the local people.
During a discussion with the Tourism Fund management, the committee explored how local youth could be involved in tourism projects, particularly in Tsavo.
Acting CEO David Mwangi Mwangi stated that the Fund’s initiatives are not only creating jobs but also encouraging a generation committed to conservation and tourism management.
The committee also highlighted the importance of involving local communities in tourism projects, ensuring they are actively engaged in initiatives affecting their livelihoods.
