MPs fault Moi University over Sh7m gate, stalled projects

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Parliament’s Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education has put Moi University on the spot over alleged mismanagement, inflated costs, and stalled projects after MPs questioned Sh7 million spent on the institution’s main gate.

During an inspection tour of the Eldoret-based university, the committee led by Chairperson Wanami Wamboka criticised the institution for starting multiple multi-million shilling projects without completing existing ones. Lawmakers described the practice as wasteful and evidence of weak accountability.

The gate, which has been under construction for years, was cited as a prime example of mismanagement. Bomachoge Chache MP Alfah Miruka said it was unacceptable for a project billed at Sh7 million to already show cracks before completion. “It is clear that the cost was inflated. The workmanship does not reflect the amount reportedly spent,” he said.

Other incomplete projects flagged include a multipurpose amphitheatre that is only 40 per cent complete, the proposed School of Science, new hostels, and a Digital Innovation Centre — all left below halfway.

Hostels and facilities in poor condition

MPs also decried the state of student hostels and staff quarters. Narok MP Rebecca Tonkei described the hostels as “deplorable,” citing dimly lit corridors without basic fire safety measures. Embakasi West MP Mark Mwenje added that staff housing had been abandoned due to lack of renovation, urging the management to prioritise safety and livable conditions.

The dilapidated Margaret Thatcher Library was also singled out, with MPs noting the absence of basic maintenance despite heavy investment in new projects. “A school is as good as its management, and from what we are seeing here, the efficiency of Moi University’s management is highly questionable,” said Kuresoi South MP Joseph Tonui.

University pledges reforms amid criticism

Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Kiplagat Kotut acknowledged the challenges and appealed for government support to restore the institution’s image. “We are on the verge of making improvements to help Moi University regain its lost glory,” he told the committee.

Wamboka said the problems mirrored those in many public universities, where stalled projects, mismanagement, and weak oversight continue to undermine education. “Resources must be channelled to complete one project before embarking on others. Otherwise, public funds will continue to be wasted,” he warned.

The committee promised to make recommendations to strengthen governance and ensure that public institutions are held accountable for the use of taxpayer funds.