Lawmakers have voiced frustration over the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs’ expenditure of Sh1.6 billion on fish stock assessments in the Indian Ocean for the 2023/2024 financial year.
The National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Blue Economy, Water, and Irrigation expressed concern about the lack of tangible results from the costly assessment, questioning its value for money.
During a committee meeting, Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho and Principal Secretary Betsy Muthoni Njagi detailed the ministry’s budget,
Revealing a total allocation of Sh3.6 billion for a three-year project starting July 1, 2023, and ending in the 2025/2026 financial year.
The first phase, which cost Sh1.6 billion, concluded on June 30, 2024.
Committee members, including Marakwet East MP Kangogo Bowen, were critical of the ministry’s failure to deliver concrete results.
Bowen questioned, “We allocated Sh1.2 billion for stock assessment in the first year.
What tangible outcomes have we achieved?” Tiaty MP William Kamket also questioned the justification for such a substantial expenditure on fish counting amid other pressing national priorities.
Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi criticized the Ministry’s acting Chief Executive Officer for not providing specific figures from the assessment.
“The person responsible should have a detailed report without needing extra time,” Wamumbi stated.
In defense, the Ministry argued that the assessment is vital for attracting investment and understanding the marine ecosystem.
CS Joho explained that the project aims to offer a comprehensive overview of the ocean environment to assist in zoning and investment decisions.
Despite this, lawmakers remained skeptical, particularly regarding the additional Sh600 million budgeted for the next year amidst current financial constraints and low revenue return.
Kisumu West MP Roza Buyu questioned the rationale behind further funding for a project that has yet to demonstrate significant revenue benefits.
The Ministry is scheduled to return to the committee next week to provide further details and address ongoing concerns.
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