Migori: The Deputy Chief of Staff-In-Charge of Government Performance and Delivery Management, Eliud Owalo, has stressed the importance of contractors completing government projects on time and to the required standards. This directive aims to ensure that taxpayers’ money is utilized effectively for public benefit.
According to Kenya News Agency, Owalo toured various government projects in the county, including the Ngege-Mapera-Rabuor and Kawa-Osingo-Nyaduong Roads in Suna East, the Kegonga Level 4 facility in Kuria East, and the construction of Migori Stadium. Owalo emphasized that the Government Delivery Unit (GDU) prioritizes contractors’ technical capacity and expertise over the procedures they followed to secure the projects. He pointed out that many contractors struggle to complete projects on time due to inadequate technical capacity and overcommitting by taking on multiple projects.
Owalo advised contractors to undertake only the projects they can execute successfully and within the timeline to enhance public service and socioeconomic progress. He mentioned that despite the government settling pending dues, some contractors still fail to meet deadlines due to either being overburdened with other projects or misallocating funds.
The Deputy Chief of Staff also warned politicians against interfering with government implementing agencies. He urged these agencies to remain independent of political influence to ensure projects are completed promptly. Owalo highlighted the role of the GDU within the Executive Office of the President in providing necessary support to complete government projects on time.
Owalo encouraged contractors to communicate any challenges preventing timely completion and to follow the appropriate processes for addressing such issues. He warned that contractors who fail to meet agreed targets without valid justification will be barred from future government tenders.
Kuria East Member of Parliament Kitayama Maisori, who accompanied Owalo, commended the GDU’s efforts to ensure project records align with on-ground realities. He emphasized that timely and standard-compliant project completion would benefit the public and stimulate economic growth.
Migori County Commissioner Kisilu Mutua assured continued oversight by the local administration to guarantee proper coordination and implementation of projects. He praised local contractors for employing numerous residents, thereby uplifting the community’s living standards.
Other projects visited by Owalo included the Mabera Affordable Housing project, which is nearly complete, requiring only amenities such as electricity and water to be finalized. The project involves a Sh1.8 billion investment in a 60-unit three-block housing scheme.
