The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has been called upon to accelerate its investigation into the awarding of two lucrative contracts for rehabilitating key sections of Waiyaki Way, Uhuru Highway, and Mombasa Road. The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) issued the tenders following the damage caused by Nairobi Expressway construction, but questions about the legitimacy of the bidding process and possible government interference have cast a shadow over these contracts.
KeNHA awarded Shovels and Trowels, a company owned by Belgut MP Nelson Koech’s spouse, Yvonne Chepkirui Kones, a Ksh 1.19 billion contract to rehabilitate the segment from the James Gichuru Road junction to Ole Sereni Hotel on Mombasa Road. The second contract, worth Ksh 1.86 billion, was granted to Wolf Paving Kenya for the rehabilitation between Ole Sereni Hotel and Athi River. Wolf Paving Kenya is registered to Cynthia Wanjiru, with 300 shares, and Dennis Nyamu, who holds the remaining 700 shares.
Whistleblower Revelations: Alleged Favoritism and Interference
According to an anonymous whistleblower’s letter sent to EACC CEO Twalib Mbarak in June 2023, neither Shovels and Trowels nor Wolf Paving Kenya met the technical requirements necessary for the projects. The letter further alleges that a senior KeNHA director, serving as chair of the tender evaluation committee, approved these bids due to pressure from high-level officials.
Those implicated include former Roads, Transport, and Public Works Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, KeNHA’s top leadership, Principal Secretary for Roads Eng. Joseph Mbugua, and Belgut MP Nelson Koech. The letter also claims that the two companies were not the lowest bidders for the projects and suggests that a KeNHA director received Ksh 25 million in exchange for adjusting the evaluation report to favor Shovels and Trowels and Wolf Paving Kenya.
Project Delays and Safety Risks for Motorists
Despite KeNHA’s assurances that the work would conclude by April 25, 2024, there has been little progress. Wolf Paving Kenya has left sections of Mombasa Road incomplete, with a gaping tunnel near the Airtel building posing significant hazards to motorists. The stretch from Waiyaki Way to Uhuru Highway also remains unfinished, leading road users to express concerns about the two firms’ apparent lack of equipment and expertise to handle such a substantial project.
EACC’s Response and Call for Action
Although the EACC acknowledged receipt of the whistleblower’s letter, it has yet to confirm any active investigation into the alleged irregularities. Meanwhile, delays in the road rehabilitation continue to frustrate the public, with many calling on the EACC to intensify its probe to address the potential misuse of taxpayer funds and ensure the safety of Nairobi’s main transport arteries.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about corruption within public procurement and the need for transparency, especially for projects of such high public interest. As the EACC considers next steps, motorists and the general public await answers about the safety and accountability measures needed to ensure timely project completion.
