Departmental Committee Inspects Development Projects in Western Kenya

The National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Regional Development is actively fulfilling its oversight mandate by conducting inspections of government projects managed by the Lake Basin Development Authority (LBDA) in Western Kenya.

Led by Vice-Chair Hon. Mary Wamaua, the committee recently visited the Lake Basin Mall Complex in Kisumu City, initiated in August 2013. The mall, aimed at boosting local livelihoods through employment opportunities and business ventures, has been a focal point for economic development in the region.

LBDA Managing Director, CPA Wycliffe Ochiaga, informed the committee that the mall’s construction was facilitated by a Ksh 2.5 billion loan from the Cooperative Bank, disbursed between 2013 and 2015. Despite completion in April 2016, the outstanding loan, including interest and penalties, amounts to Ksh 4.4 billion, with the occupancy rate currently at 30%.

The committee challenged LBDA management to enhance marketing strategies for the mall, emphasizing the need for increased awareness among the public. Members suggested that hosting public facilities such as Huduma Centers within the mall could attract more visitors and tenants.

The committee inaugurated the St. Joseph Nalondo Girls’ and Community Water Project in Kabuchai Constituency, which aims to mitigate drought effects and benefit over 1,200 learners and 4,000 households. The project, managed by LBDA, is expected to yield up to 8,000 liters per hour, addressing water scarcity challenges in the area.

Hon. Wamaua commended LBDA for the water project, emphasizing its importance in promoting hygiene and academic performance in schools, particularly for girls.

Furthermore, the committee visited the Kisumu International Convention Centre, a multi-sectoral conference center project managed by the State Department for Devolution. However, observations revealed project stagnation due to lack of funds, prompting the committee to engage stakeholders to ensure project completion.

Today, the committee is set to inspect Nyakoe Market in Kisii County, as well as Rice Milling Plant and Fingerlings Multiplication Project in Kisumu County. The inspection team includes Hon. Kombe Harrison, Hon. Nabulindo Peter, Hon. Cherorot Kimutai, Hon. Khamis Chome, Hon. Paul Abuor, Hon. Tungule Charo, Hon. Yaqub Farah, and local MP Hon. Shakeel Shabbir.

As the committee continues its oversight activities, it remains committed to ensuring the efficient implementation of development projects for the benefit of communities in Western Kenya.