Members of Parliament have raised concern over the poor state of facilities and stalled projects at Moi University, questioning the institution’s management and use of funds.
The university’s Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kiplagat Kotut, and his management team appeared before the Public Investments Committee on Governance, led by Chairman Wanami Wamboka, to explain why millions of shillings had been spent on projects that remain incomplete despite their timelines having lapsed.
During an inspection tour, MPs noted the sorry state of key facilities, including the Margaret Thatcher Library and several students’ hostels, some of which lacked even basic provisions such as light bulbs.
“A school is as good as its management, and from what we’re seeing here today, the efficiency of Moi University management is very questionable,” said Kuresoi South MP Joseph Tonui.
At the university’s main gate, which has been under construction for years, legislators questioned the reported Sh7 million cost after observing poor workmanship.
“It is very clear that the cost of this project was inflated. A simple look at the gate shows substandard work, with cracks already showing even before its completion,” said Bomachoge Chache MP Alfah Miruka.
The construction of a multipurpose amphitheatre has also stalled at just 40 percent completion.
“The architectural design seems to have been well thought-out, but what happened to prioritizing the most necessary projects first?” posed Lunga Lunga MP Chiforomodo Mangale.
Other stalled projects include hostels, the proposed School of Science, and the Digital Innovation Centre, none of which are more than halfway done.
Chairman Wamboka warned that spreading resources across multiple projects without completing any amounted to wastage of public funds.
“The Committee notes with concern that the school 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,” he said.
MPs also visited student hostels and described them as unfit for habitation.
“Something like fire extinguishers and light bulbs are basics that need to be part of these hostels. Are the students even safe on these dimly lit corridors?” asked Narok MP Rebecca Tonkei.
At the staff quarters, the legislators found most houses abandoned and in dire need of renovation.
“We really urge the management to take charge and ensure that the facilities at this institution are in a usable condition to its clients who are the students and staff,” said Embakasi West MP Mark Mwenje.
In response, Prof. Kotut assured MPs that the university is working on improvements to restore its lost glory. He appealed for more budgetary support from Parliament to help complete pending projects and address the issues raised.
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