The Ministry of Sports in Kenya has recently come on the spot over the allocation of billions of Kenyan shillings to various consultancy services and projects.
During the financial year, the Ministry allocated Ksh 1 billion for consultancy services to aid in the preparation of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 stadia.
Additionally, Ksh 352 million was spent on regional consultancy services related to the event.
These large sums have raised questions regarding the effectiveness and necessity of outsourcing these services, particularly in a country grappling with economic challenges.
The Ministry has also spent Ksh 1.5 billion on feasibility studies and design surveys in preparation for the construction of sports academies in several constituencies.
These academies are part of the government’s broader plan to enhance grassroots sports talent development.
However, the massive spending, coupled with concerns over delays in implementing projects, has attracted criticism from various stakeholders, including lawmakers.
The renovation of the Moi International Sports Center, Kasarani, has also drawn attention, with over Ksh 3.1 billion already spent on upgrades.
This facility is expected to play a key role in hosting AFCON 2027 matches.
However, critics argue that the project lacks transparency, especially in light of Kenya’s past failures to deliver promised sports infrastructure, including unfulfilled pledges to build and renovate stadia for previous international events.
Sports Principal Secretary (PS) Peter Tum has been at the center of this controversy.
While defending the expenditure, Tum explained that the Ministry engaged experts from institutions like the University of Nairobi to ensure high-quality delivery.
However, due to mounting concerns, the Ministry has begun reviewing contracts, with several consultancy agreements already terminated. This move was seen as an effort to address growing public discontent.
Tum’s defense has done little to quell criticism.
MPs have raised concerns about his absence from crucial committee meetings, where he was expected to explain the Ministry’s spending decisions and project delays.
Lawmakers have expressed frustration, with some calling for sanctions against the PS and other top officials.
The National Assembly’s Sports Committee has warned that further absences could lead to fines or other penalties under the Powers and Privileges Act.
In a country facing pressing economic needs, the Ministry’s spending on consultancy services, feasibility studies, and stadia renovations has ignited a broader debate about government accountability.
With billions of shillings at stake, the public and lawmakers alike are demanding greater transparency to ensure that these projects benefit the country and its citizens.
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