Investigative Report: PS Korir On The Spot As Corruption Allegations Rock Coast Water Works Development Agency

Mombasa, May 25, 2025 – An unfolding corruption scandal at the Coast Water Works Development Agency (CWWDA) has placed Principal Secretary for Water and Sanitation Julius Korir under intense scrutiny amid allegations of tender manipulation and irregular contract extensions.

This investigation reveals claims of multimillion-shilling bribes, political interference, and questionable appointments that threaten the integrity of critical water infrastructure projects serving Mombasa and Kwale counties.

Controversial CEO Tenure Extension Raises Questions

Central to the scandal is the disputed extension of Martin Tsuma’s tenure as Acting CEO of CWWDA, despite the completion of interviews for a permanent CEO position.

Sources indicate Tsuma did not apply for the permanent role, yet received a six-month contract extension allegedly orchestrated by PS Korir.

Acting CEO Martin Tsuma

The extension followed a competitive recruitment process involving eleven candidates: Abdikadir Mohammed, Abdulhakim Bwana, Joseph Malusha, Gilbert Kipkorir, Florence Birya, David Ngumbao, Hamoud Mguza, Ibrahim Sane, Kennedy Tembo, Richard Wandana, and Stella Tayo.

Agency insiders claim that established networks within CWWDA, concerned about disruption of existing tender arrangements, lobbied for Tsuma’s retention to oversee high-value contracts.

Korir, who reportedly maintains direct connections to Head of Civil Service Felix Koskei, is alleged to have influenced the decision to retain Tsuma during a critical period when the agency oversees significant infrastructure tenders.

Multibillion-Shilling Projects Under Scrutiny

The timing coincides with major tenders including the Mwache Trunk Main South Mainland Transmission Main and Dongo Kundu Reservoir (Tender No. CWWDA/AFD/PQ/W4/2022-2023) and the Mwache Water Treatment Plant (Tender No. CWWDA/AFD/PQ/W3/2022-2023).

These projects, designed to enhance drinking water and sanitation systems across Mombasa and Kwale, carry a combined value exceeding Sh6 billion.

Documents obtained by Kenya Insights, including a January 2025 letter from Tsuma, confirm prequalification of multiple firms: China Railway No. 10 Company Limited, Osman Arab Contractors, Zakhem Construction Kenya Limited, Stecol Corporation, Shanghai Municipal Engineering Design Institute, Power China, Safbon Water Holding, and Vinci Construction Grand Projects.

However, sources allege the pre qualification process was compromised by corruption.

A businesswoman identified as “Queen Jane” is accused of facilitating multimillion-shilling deals on Korir’s behalf, allegedly receiving kickbacks to influence tender outcomes.

Alleged Bribery Network Exposed

International companies report being shortchanged in the tendering process, with some disclosing information about alleged bribes.

One firm reportedly paid Sh10 million to board members, with funds allegedly channeled through CWWDA director Hamid Mbarak to secure prequalification.

Additional sources claim CWWDA board chairman Dr. Daniel Mwaringa received Sh10 million but distributed only Sh1 million to others while retaining the remainder.

Daniel Mwaringa

These allegations have prompted some international firms to pursue legal action to expose the irregularities.

Court Orders Deepen Crisis

The scandal intensified when Justice Monica Mbaru of the Employment and Labour Relations Court issued conservatory orders in January 2025, restraining Tsuma and seven deputy directors from accessing their offices.

The affected officials include David Kanui (ICT), Hamadi Mwazito (Internal Audit), and Mary Okioma (Corporation and Legal Services).

The orders followed a petition by John Abura challenging the eligibility of these officials, alleging their positions were not properly advertised and that the board was compromised to select loyalists. The court barred these officials from receiving salaries or allowances pending investigation.

The timing of these interdictions, coinciding with CEO recruitment, has fueled speculation about deliberate efforts to maintain operational control during the critical tender period.

Political Dimensions and Regional Pressure

The controversy has assumed political dimensions as Coast politicians reportedly advocate for local representation in CWWDA leadership, viewing Tsuma’s extended tenure as limiting their influence.

Simon Charo, a former CEO applicant, was allegedly sidelined due to his political connections and experience, which threatened established interests.

Sources indicate Charo is preparing to expose additional corruption within CWWDA and the Ministry, escalating what insiders term the “water wars.”

Meanwhile, Cabinet Secretary for Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation Eric Mugaa appears marginalized in these proceedings, with Korir’s influence reportedly dominating agency operations.

Eric Mugaa

Land Disputes Add Complexity

CWWDA continues struggling to reclaim 19 acres of allegedly illegally acquired land in Nyali, Shanzu, and Mikindani, with complaints filed with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the National Land Commission. These disputes highlight broader governance challenges within the agency.

The allegations have generated significant public attention on social media platforms, with citizens demanding accountability through hashtags like #CoastWaterScandal.

Posts highlight concerns about corruption potentially derailing essential water infrastructure projects, with calls for EACC investigations.

Critical Infrastructure at Risk

The Sh6 billion water projects, including the Mwache Trunk Main and Water Treatment Plant, are essential for addressing water scarcity in Mombasa and Kwale counties.

Any delays or mismanagement resulting from corruption could exacerbate regional water crises, potentially affecting thousands of residents’ access to clean water.

The bribery, tender manipulation, and political interference allegations threaten public trust in both the Ministry and CWWDA, reflecting broader concerns about corruption in Kenya’s water sector.

## Investigation and Accountability Needed

This investigation reveals concerning patterns of alleged corruption and power abuse at CWWDA, with PS Julius Korir prominently implicated. The EACC must urgently investigate these claims, examining the tendering process, Tsuma’s tenure extension, and the alleged involvement of intermediaries including “Queen Jane.”

Transparency and accountability are essential to ensure vital water projects proceed without compromise by corrupt practices. The public interest demands thorough investigation and appropriate action to restore confidence in these critical infrastructure developments.

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**Contact Information:**
– CWWDA: [email protected]
– Office: Mikindani Street, Off Nkrumah Road, Mombasa

**Legal Disclaimer:** All allegations presented are based on sources and documents reviewed during this investigation. All mentioned parties are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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