The CEO of the National Irrigation Authority (NIA), Eng. Charles, stands accused of refusing to pay contractors and suppliers for over a year unless they provide a substantial ‘cut’ of the money owed to them.
This revelation has sparked outrage and concern among stakeholders, highlighting a pervasive issue of corruption within the organization.
One supplier, who wishes to remain anonymous, claims to have supplied goods worth Ksh. 19.7 million in January 2023.
Despite numerous follow-ups, the supplier has yet to receive payment. The supplier asserts that Eng. Muasya is demanding a bribe of up to Ksh. 5 million before any payment is processed.
This alleged demand for a bribe represents a significant portion of the total invoice, placing an undue financial burden on the supplier and threatening the viability of their business.
The supplier’s plight is not an isolated case. Other suppliers have also voiced their grievances, indicating a broader pattern of unethical practices within the NIA.
A contractor who completed a major irrigation project in March 2023 valued at over Ksh. 8.6 million reports a similar experience.
Despite fulfilling all contractual obligations, the contractor has been stonewalled and is being asked for a ‘facilitation fee’ of Ksh. 3 million to expedite the payment process.
This amount is nearly half of the project’s value, effectively slashing the contractor’s earnings and undermining their business operations.
These allegations cast a dark shadow over the National Irrigation Authority, an organization tasked with a critical role in enhancing irrigation infrastructure and supporting agricultural productivity.
The refusal to process payments without receiving bribes not only hampers the financial stability of suppliers and contractors but also jeopardizes ongoing and future projects.
The ripple effect of such corruption could lead to project delays, increased costs, and a decline in the quality of irrigation services, ultimately affecting the agricultural sector and food security in the region.Eng. Muasya’s alleged actions represent a grave breach of ethical standards and a betrayal of public trust.
The demand for bribes in exchange for payment processing is not only illegal but also fundamentally unjust, creating an environment where corruption flourishes at the expense of honest businesses and efficient project execution.
To address these serious allegations, it is imperative for the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the claims against Eng. Muasya.
Transparency and accountability must be prioritized to restore faith in the National Irrigation Authority and ensure that suppliers and contractors are treated fairly.
Establishing robust anti-corruption measures and enforcing strict penalties for unethical behavior will be crucial in preventing similar issues in the future.
The NIA must also consider implementing an anonymous reporting system for whistleblowers, providing a safe avenue for individuals to report corrupt practices without fear of retaliation.
This could encourage more victims to come forward, shedding light on the full extent of the problem and facilitating comprehensive reform.
The allegations against Eng. Charles Muasya underscore a critical need for systemic change within the National Irrigation Authority.
Ensuring timely payments, and eradicating corruption are essential steps toward fostering a fair and functional irrigation sector.
Only through decisive action and unwavering commitment to integrity can the NIA hope to rebuild its reputation and effectively serve the nation’s agricultural needs.
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