State House Comptroller Katoo Ole Metito presented a compelling case to the National Assembly Security and Administration Committee on Friday, February 23, elucidating the critical need for Ksh 6.9 billion in funding to facilitate renovations at the State House and associated lodges.
Metito underscored the urgency of the renovations, emphasizing that the allocated budget fell short by a substantial margin, potentially hindering the completion of crucial renovation works that were long overdue.
"The department had initially requested Ksh 16.2 billion to adequately address the pressing renovation requirements under the State House Affairs Programme for the Financial Year 2024/25," Metito revealed.
He cautioned that without the necessary funding, State House might fail to meet its renovation targets, highlighting the significant shortfall of Ksh 6.9 billion.
Explaining the rationale behind the budget allocation, Metito defended the decision to allocate Ksh 1.5 billion for the subsequent financial year, emphasizing that refurbishing existing structures was a cost-effective alternative to constructing a new State House, which would have incurred exorbitant expenses.
A detailed breakdown of the Ksh 1.5 billion allocation revealed adjustments in renovation costs for both State House and lodges across various locations. While the budget for State House renovations saw an increase, adjustments were made to reduce costs for the State lodges in Mombasa, Nakuru, and Eldoret.
Despite initial approval from the Treasury, Controller of Budget Margaret Nyakang'o disclosed her decision to reject a request by the State House to allocate Ksh 700 million for the construction of a modern presidential dias. Nyakang'o cited adherence to constitutional provisions, stating that emergency funds could not be utilized for projects without proper justification.
The refusal to allocate additional funds underscored the stringent oversight exercised by Nyakang'o, ensuring prudent financial management within government institutions despite pressing demands for renovation and modernization projects.