MPs demand answers over Ksh69.9M Luanda TVC stalled project

The Luanda Technical and Vocational College in Vihiga County, Kenya, is facing a stalled construction project that has left students learning under inadequate conditions. The Ksh69.9 million project, which was initially set to be completed in March 2024, has been delayed, underperformed, and the contractor has demanded an additional Sh6 million over alleged price fluctuations.

The Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education raised concerns about the project's delays, poor management, and the contractor's failure to maintain meaningful activity at the site. As of June 30, 2024, the project was only 55% complete and 32 weeks behind schedule. However, officials report that the project is now 85% complete.

The Luanda MP Dick Maungu, who chairs the Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education, expressed concern over the prolonged delay, stating that students were currently learning under a tree and in a primary school class. He emphasized that the issue was not about a lack of funds but rather poor project management. The government funds should not simply remain in accounts without completing projects and providing services to citizens.

The contractor, Capital Icon Construction Limited, has been granted an extension to November 19, 2026, to complete the project. However, the contractor is demanding an additional Ksh6 million, citing price fluctuations, before resuming work. The Project Implementation Committee chairman, Walter Obwogo, stated that meaningful activity on the site had stopped. Public Works architect Anthony Ekajul voiced concerns that terminating the contract could further delay the completion of the project.