Egerton University seeks parliamentary support to reclaim grabbed land
Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaack Kibwage appealed on Wednesday during a meeting with the Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education, chaired by MP Wanami Wamboka.
Egerton University has appealed to Parliament to intervene in a protracted land dispute that has stalled its development initiatives and revenue-generating activities.
The institution claims that over 2,000 acres of its farmland have been illegally seized by individuals who have obtained documentation claiming ownership, making recovery attempts both difficult and sometimes dangerous.
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Vice Chancellor Prof Isaack Kibwage appealed on Wednesday during a meeting with the Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education, chaired by MP Wanami Wamboka.
The session, held at the university in Nakuru, was convened to address audit issues raised by the Office of the Auditor General.
Prof. Kibwage explained that the land was intended to support agricultural activities designed to supplement government funding, but ongoing disputes have prevented its use.
“This land ownership matter is very big and sensitive, but the land belongs to the University, and as MPs, we shall do everything possible to enable its restoration to the institution,” Wamboka said.
The committee chair outlined a plan to involve multiple parliamentary committees, including Lands and Security, in a coordinated effort to resolve the impasse.
“These land ownership wrangles have frustrated the Management for years to the point that they cannot undertake any income-generating activities on the parcel. We shall recommend the coming together of three Committees - Lands, Security, and PIC on Governance & Education - to apply concerted efforts to resolve the matter, to visit the land and find a lasting solution,” he added.
The MPs also addressed several audit concerns, including seven stalled projects valued at Sh435.5 million after contractors withdrew due to non-payment.
Other issues raised were procurement irregularities and the diversion of Sh600 million from development funds to cover salaries. Legislators described the latter as unlawful.
“The finance officer’s decision is equal to usurping powers of the National Assembly by diverting funds to any other use other than its intended purpose, and without any approval,” emphasised Kakai Bisau.
The committee resolved to recommend that anti-corruption authorities investigate the matter and that legal proceedings be initiated against the officer responsible for the fund diversion.
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