Government announces rise in port activity amid graft allegations
The completion of the Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone, combined with the modernisation of Kenya's ports, has positioned the country as a key regional trade hub.
Kenya's ports have recorded a surge in productivity, handling over 41,1 million tonnes of cargo and two million containers, up from 35.9 million tonnes and 1.6 million containers, respectively.
Speaking at a press conference at KICC Towers on Wednesday, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said the completion of the Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone, combined with the modernisation of Kenya's ports, has positioned the country as a key regional trade hub.
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"The Government, through the Ministry of Roads and Transport, has championed transformative projects that are fueling economic growth and creating opportunities for Kenyans. These unfolding initiatives manifest the government's unwavering dedication to building a brighter and more sustainable future for our people," stated Mwaura.
However, this announcement of growth in cargo handling comes amid ongoing investigations into economic crimes at the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) placing the value of alleged financial improprieties at over Sh2 billion.
The EACC Annual Report report for 2023/24 outlines several cases involving misappropriation of public funds, including a Sh1.7 billion scandal tied to compensation for fishermen affected by the LAPSSET project and a Sh650 million irregular payment to Miller & Company Advocates for legal services.
EACC further suspects KPA lost over Sh230 million through irregular tender awards for the provision of portable water at Lamu Port and Sh148 million for improper alienation of public land.
"We have observed an emerging trend where public officials are enrolling family members to act as corruption-facilitating proxies.," said EACC Chairperson Bishop David Oginde during the launch of the Commission's yearly report on Tuesday.
He went on to encourage members of the clergy in all religious institutions to refuse to be silenced by receiving proceeds of corruption as donations.
EACC CEO Abdi Mohammud noted the magnitude of the agency's corruption investigations involving other public institutions, like Tana Athi Water Works Development Agency, Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), and The Kenya Railways.
"We will not give up on collaborating with the management teams in state institutions to curb corruption," noted Mohammud.
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