Coast Water Works Development Agency Engulfed In Corruption

The Coast Water Works Development Agency has earned a reputation as the most inefficient agency in Kenya’s water sector.

A report by Auditor General Nancy Gathungu shows that nearly all projects are behind schedule.

Meanwhile, acting CEO Sao Alima enjoys a close relationship with key government officials, making him seemingly untouchable.

As a result, taxpayers face increased water shortages while the agency struggles to deliver on its commitments. Let’s dive deeper into the issues plaguing this vital agency.

The Leadership Crisis at Coast Water Agency

The senior management team at Coast Water is mostly filled with acting positions. Only four out of eleven top managers hold substantive roles.

This lack of leadership stability hampers decision-making and progress. Acting CEO Martin Tsuma and his team, including Simon Charoh and David Kanui, face mounting scrutiny.

Notably, the board of directors, led by Daniel Mwaringo, holds limited oversight authority. The absence of permanent leadership in senior positions raises alarms about the agency’s efficiency and accountability.

Project Delays: Where Is the Water?

The Coast Water Agency has seen several projects stalled for years. For instance, the construction of the Baricho Well-Field Protection Works began in 2021 but remains unfinished despite a budget of Sh3.6 billion.

The agency signed a contract for this project with a completion date of November 2022. But during an audit in October 2023, it was clear that the project was still incomplete.

Another problematic project is the Mombasa North Mainland Phase 1. Initially expected to finish in 2022, it has faced multiple delays.

The contractor has received over Sh370 million but failed to complete the work on time. The agency issued a warning regarding potential penalties, yet progress remains stagnant.

The Consequences of Inaction

The long delays in these projects have serious impacts. Residents continue to suffer from water shortages, and the financial waste puts taxpayer money at risk.

As projects stall and costs escalate, the possibility of delivering safe and reliable water to the community diminishes.

The Auditor General’s reports highlight a glaring need for better management and accountability within the Coast Water agency.

In conclusion, the Coast Water Works Development Agency faces significant challenges. Delayed projects, ineffective leadership, and the lack of urgency jeopardize water services and public trust.

Immediate reforms and stronger oversight are essential to address these issues and improve service delivery. Without action, the agency’s troubling trajectory will likely continue.